Motif of Freedom
The motif of freedom requires the motif of repression, but this repression is lost to the awareness of the reader in the face of freedom. From motoring to escaping dull plans with Charles' uncle, Sebastian and Charles are able to seize hold of a moment-to-moment vision for themselves which pays no attention to the reality of homophobia in British society. The lack of immediate consequences allows them to focus on the choices themselves, which emphasize the recurring presence of freedom.
Motif of Possessive Love
Sebastian and Charles seize hold of indicators that serve to reinforce their bond, such as the Latin cry of "Contra Mundum." The concept of Possessive Love recurs throughout the novel; it traces Sebastian's territorialism of where he lives and spends time, as well as Sebastian's request that Charles not love his family in the way he lives Sebastian. The motif of possessive love is strengthened by the lack of all-consuming love later in the novel because this absence draws the feelings of possessive love again into focus.
Allegory of British Empire
The opening of the novel places its events in a time of reconfiguration and paring down of the once-grand British Empire. The boys' education and extravagance of lifestyle provide an allegory of the British Empire as a whole, as does the displacement of their attention.
Symbol of Aloysius
Aloysius is a signifier of Sebastian's youthfulness and innocence. He functions as such initially for the reader and those who find themselves socially captivated by Sebastian in his orbit, but the symbol of Aloysius shifts over time to be more strongly a signifier of Sebastian's wish to be perceived as protected even without help.
Symbol of Clothes
Charles is reprimanded by his family for his wastefulness and choices to drink too often, even sometimes during the day. He has picked up the habit of dressing flamboyantly, and his clothing signifies a positive reminder to himself of his social echelon even as it exasperates Jasper.
As the novel progresses, Charles becomes less aware of his showy clothes. The moments which depict others' notice of his sartorial choices are those in which Charles most fervently seizes onto his connection to Sebastian; moreover, Charles' clothing reflects the accumulation of capital, which primarily manifests to others through sartorial choices.
