Quilts

The quilts that Lena makes for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren are symbolic of legacy. Lena initially decides to make the quilts after Everardo's accident, fearing that witnessing the incident has negatively impacted her grandson Ever. Decades later, her niece recovers all of the blankets, and sees them as a sign of Lena's lasting love. They physically connect the family, and are a manifestation of Lena's legacy.

Powwows

The powwows that the characters attend throughout the novel are symbolic of tradition. Many of the older community members encourage their children's and grandchildren's participation in the dances, as a way to reconnect them to their tribal ancestry. The powwows knit the community together, and help them to pass their traditions from one generation to the next.

Regalia

The regalia that Vincent makes for Ever and Quinton is symbolic of redemption. After Vincent gets sober, he begins spending time...