Hollywood and Vine Money

In the beginning of the book the reader learns that Iris has been saving all of her prize money from her speeches and recitals so that she can afford bus fare to Hollywood. The money is stolen, more than once, from Edgar. This not only represents the fact that Edgar has a total disregard for his daughter's money, but that she doesn't trust him. The relationship between Edgar and Iris is an adversarial one, and it is easy to see why Iris leaves as soon as she can.

Red Lipstick

Each time Iris is about to go for an important audition or is meeting someone very important she applies red lipstick. This becomes to symbolize a putting on of armor, so to speak. Later, the reader will see Eva repeat the same ritual, as does Clara Williams.

Reenie's White Hair Ribbon

When Iris...