Ghosts/Visions

The ghosts—or possibly visions—of Rosalinda and Baby symbolize the persistence of grief and loss. After Rufina’s infant dies during the process of birth, Rufina sees a vision of the baby for years. She also sees a vision of Rosalinda after Rosalinda’s death. The angel eventually banishes these visions in order to help Rufina overcome her sense of grief.

Tourists

The tourists symbolize racial prejudice and socioeconomic divisions. Tres Hermanas has residential communities of Native Americans, Hispanic people, and immigrants, many of whom struggle with economic instability. Meanwhile, many wealthy white tourists visit the town. The tourists display racial prejudice, and they essentially use the residents as sources of personal entertainment.

Hip and Cane

Rufina’s hip and cane symbolize her lingering trauma. After Rufina was raped by the Explorer, Rufina found that she was pregnant. She gave birth to the child...