The Bang Tree

The bang tree represents the growth and resiliency of the Trần family during and after the war. Diệu Lan and Hương planted the tree after rebuilding their house, which was destroyed by bombers during the war. Hương typically notes the state of the bang tree when her family is gathered together; for instance, after Uncle Đạt tells his story of being the war, Hương notes that the bang tree “stirred, its branches rustling against our roof” (199). At the end of the novel, the tree “had grown tall,” just as their family grew stronger from overcoming the adversities of war (336).

The Sơn ca Carving

Literally meaning “mountains sing,” the Sơn ca carving is a symbol of unconditional familial loyalty and strength for Hương. Hương’s father carved the bird for her during the war; he modeled...