Barr

Barr, Cory's father, is the central symbol in the novel for monetary success. Barr is a self made millionaire who owns a 1.5 million dollar home, and thus embodies everything which Cory seeks to destroy. His money and affluence is often alluded to by Cory as greed, and his lack of empathy and respect is tied by Cory to privilege. More widely, Barr represents the every-man the younger generation seeks to destroy. His old school approach to work, his desire for success and his dedication to business over family all symbolize tenants of the past generation.

Drugs

Throughout the novel, drugs symbolize escape. For Cory, drugs offer a relief from her failing non profit and her strained relationship with her father. For Linda, drugs offer an excuse from pursuing a meaningful life. For Henrik, drugs provide the assurance and comfort he lacked as a child. For Will...