How does the author use symbolism in the novel, Under the Udala Trees?

One example of symbolism can be seen in the author's use of dreams and nightmares in connection to that characters' fears, epiphanies, and internal struggles. The characters often attempt to interpret their dreams and nightmares in terms of meanings related to their lives. For example, Amina interprets a nightmare as meaning that she should end her relationship with Ijeoma. Years later, Ijeoma has a nightmare that she interprets as meaning that she needs to escape her marriage immediately.