What does Plane represent?

The plane represents the ubiquity of technology in the modern world. Despite the unbelievable feat that is air travel, in the novel, it is regarded by Jim and Tessa as something closer to an inconvenience. The ubiquity of technology makes it difficult for people to assess its foundational role in society and the dependence that people have on it. Technology has altered human nature in profound ways that are difficult to ascertain. On the plane, this is made clear by how the nature of air travel affects Jim and Tessa’s ability to communicate and remember.