Suit

The suit Roger Button buys for Benjamin shortly after his birth symbolizes depression. When Benjamin first dons the suit, Roger feels depressed and unsettled. He had hoped that granting his son the clothing he desired, might disguise the child's obviously aged appearance. However, seeing his son in the outfit only amplifies Roger's despair and confusion.

Cigars

The cigars Benjamin steals from his father and smokes in the nursery symbolize transgression. As soon as Roger discovers what Benjamin is up to, he is determined to punish him. Though Benjamin is his child, Roger cannot bring himself to do so. The cigars also expose the transgressive nature of Benjamin's birth and appearance.

Benjamin Button

Benjamin Button's character symbolizes uniqueness. Born as an old man, Benjamin cannot help aging backwards. The author uses his character to expose the ways in which the outsider is treated by the overarching culture...