Lazaro's Heart

Lazaro's heart is symbolic of life. Although Victor is convinced the young solider has died on his table, he reaches into his chest and squeezes his heart. Doing so effectively brings Lazaro back to life. The heart thus foreshadows Victor's survival throughout the novel in that it portends life and hope.

Chess

The act of playing chess symbolizes escape. While in the concentration camps both in France and in Chile, Victor uses imaginary games of chess to ease his torment and pass the time spent in captivity. Victor also plays chess with Salvador Allende. The sometime-president faces many obstacles and threats in his professional life, and playing chess with Victor offers him an escape from his worries.

Winnipeg

The Winnipeg ship is symbolic of hope. The ship literally transports the Spanish refugees, including the Dalmaus, out of danger in France to safety in Chile. For...