Symbolism of gifts?

Gifts are symbols of affection and love. While Mrs. Bergen both expects and accepts expensive gifts from her parents, she refuses to let Patty accept money from them. Patty carefully selects a Father’s day gift for Mr. Bergen, but he casts it casually aside. Patty receives a ring as a gift from Anton. She wishes she had a gift to give Ruth when she comes to visit the reformatory and brings a gift of food.