The Phantom Pain

In "Playing Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain," Mirwais's video game The Phantom Pain is symbolic of the past. Throughout Mirwais's time playing the game, the world of The Phantom Pain becomes indistinguishable from the world of his father's past in Afghanistan. In this way, the author uses the game to consider the ways in which one's life is influenced by one's family history.

Fingers

In "Return to Sender," Ismael's dismembered fingers are symbolic of loss. When Yusuf and Amina discover that Ismael has disappeared and been murdered, they attempt to stitch his body back together. Reattaching the fingers to their son's body reifies the characters' pain and grief.

Wall

In "Bakhtawara and Miriam," the wall behind which Miriam lives symbolizes entrapment. Ever since Miriam's ex-husband threw acid at her face, permanently scarring her, she has been unable to leave her parents' home...