What does Jake's mohawk represent in the novel, The Music of Bees?

Jake's record-setting mohawk symbolizes his old set of identities prior to his injury. Before he became a paraplegic, Jake defined himself by his affiliation with punk rockers and the counter culture, which he displayed outwardly by his hair style. But as his character evolves, he chooses to shave the mohawk, signifying that he has left his past self behind and is ready to create a new life.