White camellia flowers

Camellia flowers are a symbol of adoration and affection between two people. As the novel begins, Antonio lovingly cares for these flowers on their balcony. He attends to them daily as part of his routine, caring more for the flowers than his family. For a year he has been unwilling to find work and responsibly provide for their needs. Sadly, they are the one thing he expresses concern over as he leaves. He pauses before he walks out the door, and asks what will happen to the plants. His concern should be for his wife and daughters, but it is not, causing Josephine even further pain.

As time goes on, Josephine cares for the plants on the balcony, which had always been solely Antonio's job. The author notes however that the camellia flowers were giving her trouble (65). The bond of affection that once existed...