Alejandro

Alejandro represents the path to enlightenment, as well as the balance between the individual's mind and body. After Berg begins apprenticing with him, Alejandro teaches him many things, not only about the boatbuilding craft, but about self-awareness, meditation, and the centering of the spirit. Alejandro's measured manner of carrying himself, his obsessive attention to detail, succeeds in expanding the symbolism of his character. By taking Berg into his work, home, and under his care, Alejandro acts as a guide for the young man, leading him with patience and kindness through a series of dark and painful struggles.

The Cubby

The cubby off of Alejandro's shop where Berg moves after finishing his work at Mimi's, represents the confining nature of Berg's addiction and habitual repression of his pain and past. While in the space, Berg suffers a nearly catastrophic relapse, the tiny space the container for his...