Storms

Storms symbolize the chaos and uncertainty facing the fleeing refugee population. They are violent and disturbing and outside the control of the passengers on the Calypso. While being tossed by storms, the boat loses its only lantern light, the passengers below scream out in terror, and ultimately, it is a large storm that capsizes the boat. This chaos and uncertainty that threatens the dreams of the refugees is a faceless multitude of terror that no one can hope to surmount while riding in such a decrepit vessel as the Calypso.

Sheltering Trees

The island is full of sheltering tree groves that protect the landmass and its structures from storms. The trees represent a safe haven, a place of potential respite for travelers who have weathered the storms of the open ocean. Importantly, the trees are spaced out and located only in pockets, indicating that shelter and...