Pendant

Claire's lapis pendant symbolizes strength and healing. Claire wears the pendant throughout the novel, illustrating her dependence on the stone's traditional, mythological significance. By the end of the novel, she gives the stone to Lise. This gesture illustrates her newfound clarity and independence. She no longer needs the stone for guidance or empowerment.

Teeth

Claire's vaginal teeth symbolize inner conflict. When Claire first discovers the teeth, she feels concerned and afraid. Soon Claire comes to love the teeth, as they feel like a private extension of herself. Throughout the novel, references to the teeth reveal new truths about Claire's journey towards self-actualization. By the story's end, the teeth have fallen out, thus illustrating her movement into a new phase of life and personal development.

Letters

Martha's letters to Denise symbolize the past. Because Claire feels as if she never really knew her mother, she pours over...