What is fire

Fire symbolizes total and absolute destruction, which is demonstrated through the grocer’s flashback. As fire is a fast way to kill a large number of people at once, the fire that devastates the grocer’s country most likely represents some kind of genocide. This is supported by several details, such as the fact that the fire is wielded by large, faceless, and powerful men who appear to be representative of the government. This symbolism serves as another example of why an immigrant may seek refuge, as the fire completely destroys the grocer’s country and people.