The blue crocus

The blue crocus symbolizes Tom’s love for Elizabeth. He picks that flower for her on their first date and leaves it on her doorstep every year on the anniversary of that day. The blue crocus reassures Elizabeth that Tom is always thinking of her.

The engagement ring

The engagement ring James gives to Elizabeth, which is an old family heirloom, represents James’ desire to possess her. When he first presents it to her, he says, “Now it belongs with you, just as you belong with me” (230). The implication here is that in wearing James’ ring, Elizabeth surrenders part of herself to him. Elizabeth only accepts the ring—and with it, James’ hand in marriage—out of desperation.

Tom’s family quilt

Tom’s family quilt represents the future he and Elizabeth have planned. The quilt, which gets passed down generation to generation in...