Books

Areum's books symbolize experience. Though Areum is only 16, he is lodged in the body of an elderly man. His rare condition, therefore, precludes him from living as a young person or an old person. The only way for him to discover the essence of these experiences, is through reading. Books also act as Areum's escape from reality, and his constant companions.

Emails

The emails Areum and Seoha send to one another symbolize connection. Though Areum is close with his parents and Little Grandpa Jang, he has never had a friend his age. Until Seoha, he has also never fallen in love. His email correspondence grants him an entrance into these experiences, and allows him to feel a form of kinship and affection he never before experienced.

Progeria

Areum's rare condition, known as progeria, symbolizes fragility. Though very few people are diagnosed with the disease, the author...