Hula Dancing

Hula dancing is perhaps the most resonant symbol in the novel, and functions as a representation of the cultural resilience of the Hawaiian people in the face of colonialism. As Hulali observes early in the novel, hula removes the idea of cultural belonging from the clutches of American politicking and instead serves as a celebration of Hawaiian tradition. As such, it becomes a powerful motivator for Hi`i later in the novel as she attempts to earn the respect of her community and peers through her skill as a dancer.

Tourist at Puhi Bay

The tourist that Laka encounters at Puhi Bay early in the novel functions as a symbol of the disrespectful and entitled behavior that is commonplace toward native Hawaiians. As Laka observes, the man's attempt to participate in a Hawaiian cultural event speaks to the ownership he implicitly feels over Hawaiian experience...