The Ritz

The Ritz symbolizes success in the American myth of going to New York to seek your fortune. The man who scams Lemuel on the train tells him he can come call on him at the Ritz to impress him. Mr. Hainey appears to Lemuel as a credible employer when he comes to visit him at his lodgings in the Ritz.

1820’s Western Attire

These outfits symbolize a nostalgia for a time in America that was perceived as more rigorous and successful. Shagpoke’s fascist political party is nicknamed the Leather Shirts after their uniforms of coonskin caps, deerskin shirts, blue jeans, and moccasins. The Rip-Tail Roarer also dresses this way and is the demise of Lemuel and Betty.

Lemuel's False Teeth

The fake teeth become a symbol of how the events that oppress him take away his voice. Lemuel can no longer speak naturally, violated...