Spray-Painted Message

The spray-painted message is a symbol of mayhem. When the police find the words scrawled across the wall of the Jacobs house the morning January is reported missing, they realize the situation is serious.

Dance Competition Photographs

The photographs of January at her dance competitions are a symbol of misogyny. The police officers (and later the nation) blame Krissy for dressing her daughter "provocatively" because they believe her looks might have "lured" a dangerous man close to her.

Wedding Ring

The wedding ring that Billy gives Krissy is a symbol of their dysfunctional relationship. Billy proposes to Krissy because he has no imagination and thinks that is what must be done, and Krissy accepts because she believes that financial security will make her happy.

Robe

The robe is a symbol of Krissy's guilt. Although she is not responsible for the murder of January, the red...