Archie Comic

The Archie comic is a symbol of disguise. Billy carries comic books with him when he meets with Nick and his underlings because they make Billy appear less intelligent than his actual self.

Zola’s Thérèse Raquin

Zola’s Thérèse Raquin is a symbol of Billy’s real self. Even though Billy pretends to be mentally slow and interested only in comic books, he is very intelligent. His intelligence is among the things that he hides from Nick and his underlings. After Billy is dead, Alice places a copy of this novel on Billy’s grave showing how well she knew Billy.

Cookies

The cookies are symbols of innocence and lost innocence. Before Bob killed Cathy, she had been baking cookies. Later, when Billy visits with the Ackermans, Corinne gives him some freshly baked cookies. Billy is unable to eat them...