Dad's diagnosis

Dad’s diagnosis symbolizes Dad’s fate. When Dad is diagnosed at the beginning of the novel, he accepts it with resignation. He knows his time is now limited and his fate is certain: he will die before the autumn.

Frank's aiport sighting

Frank’s airport sighting is an omen of never being able to find him. Early in the novel, Mary learns by phone that a friend has seen Frank at the airport. No one knows where Frank is going. This means that when Mary later tries to find Frank, she will be unable to find him.

The dress

The dress symbolizes Frank’s homosexuality. When Frank is a teenager, he and the neighbor boy put on dresses and ride around on a horse together. They are discovered by Dad, who instantly recognizes Frank’s homosexuality based on his decision to dress like a...