New York City

Although New York City is a frequent setting in the novel, it is also effectively deployed as a symbol as well. While all of the European locations in the novel are being controlled, to one degree or another, by current or impending wars and fighting, New York City is a peaceful safe haven. Even though Ferrar travels to New York City on several different occasions, including in the midst of the novel's main conflict, there is little to no conflict that follows him there. Once Ferrar is introduced to the idea that he could move his family there for their personal safety, the idea makes so much sense that he quickly accepts it.

Torn coat lining

Castillo is coldly executed in Madrid not because he has committed any crimes, but simply because the inspecting officer notices that the lining in Castillo's coat has been...