Lily's Ghost

Lily's ghost is symbolic of longing. After learning that Lily has died, Finn has difficulty believing she is really gone. Therefore, seeing and communing with her ghost is a manifestation of Finn's desire to keep her alive or to bring her back to life.

Eliza's Letters

Eliza's letters are symbolic of grief. Although some time has passed since her sister's death, Eliza continues to write to her late sister. The letters capture and convey Eliza's heartbreak over losing her sister and her struggle to heal from this loss.

Boardinghouse

Eliza's boardinghouse, which later becomes an inn, is symbolic of time. When Finn and Lily stop at the inn, Finn is immediately intrigued by the building's history and the artifacts found inside. The boardinghouse illustrates the author's belief that one era is also entangled with those preceding it.

Ashes

Eliza's sister's ashes are symbolic of healing...