Hector Hidalgo (name)

Horace’s decision to adopt the name Hector Hidalgo symbolizes his discomfort with his own identity. Due in part to the influence of his racist grandmother, Horace is ashamed of his half-Native American ancestry. Thus, when he pursues a boxing career, he adopts the name Hector Hidalgo and tries to pass as Mexican. The novel portrays these actions as dysfunctional and misguided.

B.O.A.T.

The self-help book entitled B.O.A.T. symbolizes both the positive and negative aspects of personal ambition. This self-help book encourages Horace to follow his dream of being a professional boxer, and it instills in him a sense of determination. While this determination is laudable, it also dampens his willingness to consider failure, so after a severe injury ends his boxing career, he is momentarily adrift in life.

Back Pain

Mr. Reese’s back pain symbolizes the...