The doll
The author figuratively uses the doll (Nani) to represent Leda's memories. Leda owns Elena's doll secretly, and she uses it to remember her past. For instance, the doll reminds Leda of her parenting responsibilities and the difficult obstacles she had to endure to raise her two daughters. The doll also reminds Leda of her cruel mother and the continued threats that she would leave them alone. Consequently, the doll is a significant figure that drives Leda into her past life experiences.
The beach
The beach is a symbol of tranquillity and calmness. When Leda's daughters leave for Canada to reunite with their father, she decides to rent an apartment at the seashore to have peace of mind and concentrate on her writings and reading. While looking at the beach, Leda discovers that families are happy and peaceful, unlike her past experiences.
The symbolism of promiscuity
There is no doubt that Nina is a symbol of promiscuity in marriage. Nina is a married woman, but when she goes to the beach, she falls for Gina, and she is ready to have sex with him. Leda is not happy with Nina's actions because she reminds her of the many mistakes in the past. Before handing over her keys to Nina, Leda advises her to be cautious and protect her marriage.
The Neapolitan family
The Neapolitan family that joins Leda on the beach is used as an emblem of the narrator's past. Nina and her two daughters are a perfect reflection of Leda's past. Looking at Nina's daughters, Leda remembers Bianca and Marta, who are now with their father in Canada. Nina's young family also reminds Leda of her troubled relationship with her divorced husband and the difficult obstacles she had to endure to bring up a successful family.
