Thanksgiving

The author uses Thanksgiving as a symbol of family. The impending holiday compels Otto to consider his relationships with his siblings, and his longtime desire for estrangement and freedom from them. Though he agrees to attend the dinner, the event only heightens his internal turmoil, thus illustrating the ways in which his familial dynamics dictate his sense of self.

The Brownstone

The brownstone where Otto and William live symbolizes stability. Otto purchased the home 25 years prior to the narrative present, and he and William have lived in it ever since. Despite the luxurious nature of the home, Otto remains unhappy. Similarly, despite the grace and kindness of his partner, Otto lives in discontent and misery. The author uses the brownstone as a physical representation of Otto's fixed and steady life. His unhappiness, therefore, is based on internal unrest, and not external struggle.

Portia

Martin's daughter Portia...