Victor’s Coma and Death

Victor’s coma and death symbolize the ability for a person’s actions/legacy to outlive the person in question. In Victor’s case, virtually all of his actions were cruel and destructive. He abused his wife and children and committed various crimes. As a result, even after he falls into a coma and dies, his actions continue to have negative effects on the psyches of Victor’s family.

Abuse

Victor’s abusive actions symbolize the possibility that some people are past redemption. Although the novel provides many examples of Victor’s abusive actions, the novel never gives any explanation for what caused Victor to be such a cruel person. Thus, the other characters must wrestle with the idea that some people might simply be corrupt, immoral, and irredeemable.

Alex’s Forgiveness

Alex attempts to forgive Victor symbolize the often uncertain nature...