Paola

Paola's character is symbolic of power. When Clodagh first meets and knows her, she perceives Paola to be an authority on life. She therefore grants Paola authority in their relationship because she has allowed Paola's external presentation to convince her of her strength and wisdom. Paola holds herself as superior to others, and thus maintains this power over Clodagh.

Chinese Food

The Chinese food that Clodagh and Ian eat after Clodagh's interaction with Mrs. Wang is symbolic of prejudice. The takeout exposes the simultaneously discriminatory and oblivious nature of Clodagh's interactions with the Wangs. The marginal way in which the food is described in this scene echoes the marginal role that the Wangs seem to play in Clodagh's world.

Laundry Bag

The laundry bag Clodagh carries home from the laundromat is symbolic of guilt. Over the course of her walk home, the bag seems to become...