Taxidermy Animals

In "The Landlady," the taxidermy parrot and dog are symbolic of trickery. Although Billy does not immediately realize the animals are dead and stuffed, they foreshadow his ultimate fate. The author uses them to portend the story's end, and to indicate the landlady's untrustworthy, nefarious nature.

William's Brain and Eye

In "William and Mary," William's new life as a brain and eye are symbolic of powerlessness. Before his death and Landy's experiment, William had total control over his wife Mary. Once he becomes a floating brain and eye, however, he loses his capacity to dictate Mary's actions and manner. She in turn gains power over him.

Elevator

In "The Way Up To Heaven," the elevator is symbolic of entrapment. Throughout her marriage, Mrs. Foster has felt trapped by her husband's insensitivity. In order to exact the life and freedom she wants, she therefore leaves her...