Describe symbolism in Oscar and Lucinda by Peter Carey

Oscar, who has never realized how odd he is, thinks Borrodaile's impression is somehow designed to convey Oscar's inner qualities. "Thus he saw the clasped hands merely as symbols to represent him as unworldly, the jerky legs as enthusiastic, the idiotic smile as kindly." (pg. 205)

In addition, the dangerous journey up-river through wild country to deliver the church Oscar means to undertake serves as a symbol of his great love for Lucinda.