Clipboard

The clipboard is a symbol of bureaucracy. When Beth's mother dies, she is told about the car accident by a strange woman with a clipboard who takes her to the Methuen House.

Tranquilizers

The tranquilizers area a symbol of child abuse. Beth is forced to take them before she can even understand what they are, but she develops a lifelong addiction to them because of her experience as a child.

Chess

Chess is a symbol of control. Beth gravitates toward the game because she sees it as an escape from her life in which she can control the outcome of events.

Doll

The doll is a symbol of sexism. Although Beth is a chess prodigy, Mr. Ganz brings Beth a doll as a gift because he assumes all little girls want to play with dolls.

Bedroom

The bedroom is a symbol of privacy and belonging. Beth...