Light and Dark
The description of light and dark is utilized to create a stark contrast between Sylvie's welfare while in the presence of the players and her normal life when she is unaccompanied. The depiction of light represents the players, who provide safety and security for Sylvie. Her physical well-being is heightened in the company of the players, who act as a shield for her against predators and catcallers. The illustration of darkness represents Sylvie's vulnerability when she is alone, she must take extra precautions to protect herself from potential harm. This description is further reinforced when Sylvie steps "deeper into the shadows," a phrase which accentuates her fear and insecurity when she is alone. This imagery of light and dark illustrates the difference in Sylvie's physical safety depending on her surroundings.
Newborns
There is strong imagery of two babies in a blanket in the middle of the room. The babies, Izzy and Alice, represent the potential and hope of the family, as they are the newest members. They are described as being excited to see each other, with Izzy handing Alice a toy. This imagery symbolizes the family's optimism and faith despite the present difficulties. Julia looks at them and remembers the earlier version of herself, who had gotten pregnant to place her baby beside this one on a sun-soaked blanket. This imagery is particularly powerful because it shows the joy of the family when the babies were born, and the potential they held. It reminds Julia of the strength of her family during their difficulties because the future remains full of possibilities.
Scavenging
The narrator asserts, "Sylvie knew where to find what she needed. Bookshelves, a box of dishes, a pot and a frying pan. Pretty embroidered pillows and curtains that looked brand-new." Sylvie is being resourceful and finding a way to make her living space comfortable despite having little to no resources. It shows Sylvie's skills and creative approach to furnishing the home for herself. This imagery is further reinforced by the description of Sylvie's scavenging habits being passed down from her mother, Rose, who had "always spent trash night trawling the neighborhood for treasures other people were throwing away." Hence, the depiction of Sylvie scavenging for items to furnish her apartment represents her ability to make something out of nothing.
Relief
The strong contrast between Julia's relief at the news that William is giving Alice up and the bleakness of the situation. This relief is described as "soaking through" Julia and sinking her into the armchair, a soft and comfortable place for her to rest. Similarly, her freedom is described as decadent, delicious, and falling "backward onto a plush bed". Julia is finally able to relax and enjoy the comfort of a home she can call her own. In contrast, Sylvie is described as looking"like a ghost and having to hold onto the wall to steady herself, indicating a much more fragile and exhausted state. The imagery of Sylvie as a ghost illustrates that her presence is temporary, that she is there to give Julia the news and then move on.
