Scars

Scars represent the lasting damage that slavery has done to those enslaved by the system. Numerous characters have physical scars including Rose, Billy, and Ada. Other characters have internal scars such as Ferdinand and Billy.

Ferdinand's Knife

Ferdinand’s knife represents freedom to him. The reader knows the knife is important throughout the novel, but it is not until the author tells the story of how he received the knife when he escaped the chain gang does the author specifically tell the reader that to him it represents freedom.

Bows and Arrows

Bows and arrows represent heroism to Sanzi. When she uses her own bow, she believes she is acting like Suleman does, and she tries to replicate his acts of heroism. Suleman gives her his bow after the rescue at Viola’s wedding, and this symbolizes to her that she has actually earned the right...