Describe symbolism in The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt

In the section titled, December, Holling's experience with Mickey Mantle reiterates the theme of hero worship and the dangers of lost heroes. Mantle was an important part of Holling's life, but when he refused him an autograph on the basis of his looks, Holling is crushed and likens the experiences to the gods dying within him. Danny, too, loses his hero in that same moment, as symbolized by his returning of the autographed ball. From the text, it becomes clear that Danny cannot respect someone who would behave in such a way, but this doesn't change the boys' pain at losing their hero.