The Scale

CJ constantly checks her weight on the scale when she is a teenager and is always unhappy with the results. For CJ, the scale measures her self-worth as Gloria constantly criticizes her because of her weight. The scale measures perfection and is a symbol of the same thing. CJ hates herself when she literally does not measure up.

CJ's Eating Disorder

CJ suffers from bulimia. Her eating disorder symbolizes her attempt to make her mother proud of her. The fact that she eats, but does not keep the food down symbolizes that her mother does not nurture her as CJ has a negative relationship with food.

The Shoes CJ Wears on Dates in New York

When CJ sees Gregg, she wears a special pair of shoes. She does the same during one of her meetings with Trent in New York. The shoes symbolize her attempt...