Mathematical Graphs

Thandi's mathematical graphs symbolize the intersection of emotion and logic. The mathematical graphs used by Thandi after her mother's death highlight the limits of logic and reason when it comes to dealing with human emotions. Thandi has a difficult term reconciling with the loss of her mother, and cannot explain it to herself. The graphs are structured forms that explain the objective laws of nature, but they are unable to describe the subjective human experience.

Outside Sources

Thandi uses outside sources in the novel, such as blog posts, journalistic pieces, and photographs, and these symbolize the complexity of Thandi's life as a light-skinned woman. The outside narrative provides another perspective, giving another dimension to Thandi beyond her own subjective experience. Pieces about Winnie Mandela address the complications of being a woman, while blog posts about racial dynamics in South Africa highlight the complicated nature of...