What is Murdoch?

Murdoch is a symbol of comfort and security. When the Belseys are having tense conversations, Murdoch is often lurking nearby, or someone is holding him close. At the end of the novel, when Kiki is living in her own apartment, the family turns to Murdoch as a surrogate for her presence. Murdoch becomes a symbol for Kiki and the other Belseys lavish affection upon him.