Describe symbolism in Life and Death in Shanghai by Nien Cheng

Meiping's jacket represents her death. After years in the harsh detention cell, Cheng's winter coat has fallen to pieces. She requests permission to buy a new winter jacket and is eventually brought a packet of her daughter Meiping's clothing. The clothes look in the same condition they were in when she left them with Meiping years ago and this is Cheng's first real indication that Meiping is dead.