The Face

Throughout the novel the face represents the canvas for authentic expression and communication. The narrative attention to the movements of each character's face, particularly those of Marianne and Connell's, allows the reader to understand their interactions on both a literal and subtextual level. Because many of Marianne and Connell's relationship conversations become confused or misinterpreted over time and distance, they often rely on communicating with their eyes or the movements of their mouths to convey the true meaning of their feelings. Through this repeated symbol the author is able to explore the deficiency of language in intimate relationships, and the ways in which physicality may fill these gaps.

Lorraine

Connell's mother Lorraine represents understanding, compassion, and acceptance. Though Lorraine often asks Connell about the particular dynamics of his relationship with Marianne, she rarely condemns. Her experiences as a single mother and her obvious strength of...