Vung Tham, Vietnam

Vung Tham, Vietnam is symbolic of home. Because this is the Vietnamese city in which Anh, Minh, and Thanh grew up, they still regard it as their home even years after leaving. References or allusions to Vung Tham throughout the novel evoke sadness and longing in the characters.

Koh Kra Island

Koh Kra Island is symbolic of trauma. This is the location in Thailand where the fishermen attack and kill the Vietnamese refugees, including Anh's parents and siblings. Although the site has become a tourist destination in the narrative present, for Anh's family, the place will always be representative of violence and loss.

United States

For refugees including Anh and her family, the United States is symbolic of possibility. This is therefore why Anh's parents are so determined to leave Vietnam for the States at the novel's start. This is also why Anh and...