The Greengage Tree

As implied by both the title and ending of the novel, the greengage tree symbolizes spiritual enlightenment. Roza’s enlightenment atop the greengage tree is described as, “she felt everything, sensed it, knew” (60), but it is not until after her death that the tree’s connection to enlightenment is made fully clear. As all five family members climb the tree together, now ghosts, the steady rise of the tree represents spiritual ascension. Once at the top of the tree, each family member is able to “let go” (271) because much like Roza claims during her enlightenment, they now see and know everything. The family comes to understand both their lives and deaths, and the enlightenment directly leads to their ability to finally pass into the spirit realm.

The Ocean

As Beeta spends the rest of her life living as a mermaid in the ocean, the...