Importance of The Lobster Trap

The lobster trap in which Kitty spots the sleeve of Moss's madras jacket is symbolic of the trappings of an affluent life. An idealist, Moss hopes to change the world with his music. He invites Len and Reg to the Island in an effort to show them that change is possible and that it does not matter that Len is Jewish or Reg is black. Yet Moss is trapped in his own upbringing and because of this he can never truly understand or empathize with either men. This becomes apparent when he believes Joan to be in danger. Moss is tethered to his Milton lineage and feels trapped by it.