Blackbirds

Throughout the novel, images of blackbirds represent death and escape. Whenever the characters notice the attention of the birds, they sense coming danger. However, they also understand that death means flight, a liberation from the horrors of war.

Aster's Necklace

Aster's necklace symbolizes fidelity. Before the war, Aster is desperate to recover the pendant, furious that Kidane has supposedly misplaced it. When she discovers that Hirut has stolen it, she feels Hirut has compromised her marriage, and overstepped her place. Later, the reader learns that Aster and Kidane wore the necklace on their wedding night. However, Kidane's misdeeds and violence against Hirut have betrayed the symbolic bond between him and his wife.

Hirut's Rifle

Hirut's Wujigra rifle symbolizes heritage. A gift from her late father, the rifle is Hirut's most prized possession, the only object she has which can tie her to her deceased parents. As...