Deadman's Landing

In "Ark of Bones," Deadman's Landing is symbolic of historical violence. During Fish-hound and Headeye's visit to the location, they watch as a group of black men drag human bones from the river and bring them to life. The bones are symbolic of those black lives taken by slavery. Their resurrection is a symbol of overcoming this historic trauma.

Echo Tree

In "Echo Tree," the echo tree is a symbol of spirituality. The author uses the tree as a portal between the human and the divine, the real and the surreal. The tree is a tangible hinge between these two realms, and allows the author to explore the thin veil between the human and spirit worlds.

Holly Springs

In "Goodbye, Sweetwater," Layton's hometown, Holly Springs, symbolizes entrapment. Throughout the story, Layton is desperate to leave Holly Springs. His mind is consumed by imagining a new...