Viking Legends

Viking legends symbolize Zelda’s desire to prove her self-worth. Zelda has a deep interest in Viking history, culture, and mythology, and so she often models her own goals and perspectives upon figures from Viking legends. Throughout the book, Zelda strives to embody virtues of courage and morality that are found in many Viking legends.

Drugs

Drugs in the novel symbolize misguided decisions. Gert, in order to remove himself and Zelda from Richard’s abusive household, accepted a loan from Toucan. Gert is paying back this loan by working for Toucan as a drug dealer. On one hand, the reader can understand the logic behind Gert’s decision, but on the other hand, the reader can also see that Gert should probably have looked for some other option.

College

College symbolizes Gert’s insecurities and his struggles to succeed. Gert attends college on a scholarship...