Ravens

Ravens are the most prevalent symbol in the novel. For many, it represents death and misfortune. Every time a character interacts with a Raven, something bad happens to them. For example, Sophie loses her child a few days after a Raven visits her home. Allen and his crew experience a loss of food, avalanches, and other disasters whenever a raven appears. For the natives, they also represent the magical of the old man, who many believe is a mystical shaman with extraordinary power. Many believe that he can transform into a raven, and his frequent appearance in the novel convinces Allen that he is not a simple cripple like they initially believed.

Mountains

The mountains represent a divide between one side of Alaska and another. Many of the Wolverine Indians see it as a pathway to the spirit world, as well as a barrier between themselves...