The Wind

The wind is one of the novel's repeated, and thematically central, symbols of the presence and power of nature. Early in the narrative, the wind becomes identified with the character of Charlotte, which gives it human qualities that manifest in several ways. These include the wind actually having a voice, and that voice at times becoming the voice of the narration.

The Moon

Throughout the book, the moon is another of its recurring symbols of nature. Early in the narrative, the moon is identified with a woman referred to as Ol' Ma Fametta, an elder from the village in which central character Gbessa is born. The connection between the moon and Ol' Ma, both often connected with the experiences of sleeping and dreaming, occurs in relation to a number of other characters as well.

Woods and Forests

Areas of woodland and forest are a third...