The Intracoastal

The Intracoastal, the river on which Daniel grew up, symbolizes home. Throughout Daniel's childhood, he spent the majority of his time on or near the river, memories upon which he reflects throughout the novel. However, throughout these times, Daniel realizes he was always searching for a way to escape the river. In this way, the river was representative of the familiar, yet it urged Daniel to crave the excitement of the unknown.

Track

For Daniel, track symbolizes escape. Daniel joins track hoping that he can perform well enough to secure a college scholarship. Track, therefore, is a gateway out of his life in Palm Coast and into a new and better life beyond it. At the same time, the physical act of running mirrors Daniel's constant emotional desire to flee home.

Aubrey

Aubrey's character symbolizes love. It is not until after Aubrey's death, that Daniel...