Grandma's Hat

Grandma's hat represents bygone fashions that were “unnecessary luxuries.”

Art

Art is a symbol of the frivolous career choice Kolya made. He knew his father was angry that he did not choose something like engineering or medicine, as his father and sister did. Theater and acting are also seen as frivolous.

Kolya's Journal

Kolya's journal is a symbol of his desire to put his thoughts into words.

The Violin and Skeleton

The violin and skeleton are part of one of Kolya's paintings. The violin represents art, and the skeleton represents death. Kolya's decision to follow art as a career was a symbol of his passion and determination, especially considering that his father did not approve of anything other than practical careers.

The Art Stone Ring

Grandma gives Sasha a stone ring just before Sasha leaves for Moscow, which is a symbol of her love and...