A crucifix (symbol)
A cross is a symbol of faith. Being a member of the Order of Francis of Assisi, Corrigan tries to live his like a true Christian, doesn’t everything possible not to break the vows he gave. Of course, it is rather difficult. Every time he had to leave his flat, Corrigan “touched the crucifix”, as if asking God to strengthen his faith, to help him to do what God wants him to do.
Ropewalking (allegory)
Ropewalking is an allegory of a life on the edge. According to Corrigan, the place where he lives is “the edge of the world”. It has nothing to do with its geographical location; it is about despair that dwells there. Not only Corrigan lives on the edge, all characters are “the edge”, for they do everything wholeheartedly.
Keep going (motif)
This novel is also about a human ability to “keep going”. Whatever happens doesn’t stop. They keep going when despair poisons their minds and souls, they struggle, make mistakes, make fool of themselves, makes terrible mistakes, breaks vows, make right choices. This is the motif of the novel: keep going even when fears make your body as stiff as a piece of wood.
