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War and Peace

This famous book becomes a symbol of learnedness and cultural capital, and it is the first book a main character checks out of the Carnegie Library.

Expensive Ermine Gloves

Rye buys these luxurious items, knowing he is overpaying for them, with money Lemuel Brand gave him that he feels is dirty.

The Cougar in Ursula's Act

This wild animal, which features in Ursula's act every night, represents the viciousness and capriciousness of the city of Spokane and of its men.

Ice Cream Soda

This simple treat represents the basic pleasures that Rye and his brother have been deprived of, as well as the deprivation of their very childhoods by their poverty and want.

Mrs. Ricci's Porch

This freezing area where Gig and Rye sleep for much of their time in Spokane represents the depths of their poverty and desperation.

Gurley Flynn's Carpet Bag

When this...

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