Wheelchair

Lyman Ward is confined to a wheelchair. He sees it as a prison, which he cannot escape, yet it also allows him freedom. Without it he would not be able to move.

Mines

The book is populated with many different mines. They are seen as unstable, unsafe and uncivilized.

Rose garden

Oliver Ward’s rose garden starts as a way to bring civilization to his wife in the barren places that they live. His rose garden at Zodiac Cottage, however, is for him and the memory of his daughter. He commemorates her by developing a new rose and naming it after her.

Mexico

Mexico represents a new beginning in a civilized place that Susan can enjoy.

West

The West is seen as uncivilized and inferior to the East. The people who settle the West are seen as uncouth.

East

The East is seen as civilized. The society...