Scars

Sammie's and Samson's bite scars are symbolic of the bonding power of a shared secret. After the bite marks fade into bruises and then into scars, Sammie starts seeing them as evidence that she and Samson belong to one another. They are also, therefore, symbolic of the entanglement between love and violence.

Home

Sammie's home is symbolic of safety and stability. Her home is the only place throughout the majority of the novel that she feels a sense of belonging. This changes after she discovers that Monika has invited Megan to move into the house. She realizes that she no longer belongs anywhere, even in the place where she established her family. Once her sense of home, and thus belonging and safety crumbles, Sammie is forced to recreate this sphere independently.

Doll

Samson's gold doll is symbolic of longing. When Samson develops an attachment to the...