How does the author use symbolism in the novel, Where Waters Meet?

The character of Little Tiger is a symbol for Chunyu's past. Throughout the entire novel, Little Tiger is a constant foreboding presence that augurs something bad. When she is imprisoned by the Japanese, he is a sort of lifeline for her, but after his fingers are shot off by Kobayashi, he blames her for what happened and continues to come around and demand money from her. He is a constant reminder of her past that she just cannot escape.