The Swastika
The swastika, which is a symbol of the Nazi party, begins to appear more and more as the Nazis gain more power. And as they gain more power, they become more oppressive and violent and contribute to a threatening and fearful atmosphere -- especially for Jewish people. This imagery is a stark reminder of the political reality the characters in the novel live in, influencing their actions and decisions.
Nazi uniforms
The imagery of Nazi uniforms and the sound of marching boots convey the constant presence and brutal power of the Nazi regime.
Tobacco shop
The descriptions of the tobacco shop in the novel, including the designs of the cigar boxes, the smell of smoke, and the area in and around the tobacco shop, all provide stark imagery which underscores the unique world Franz and Freud find themselves in.
Gestapo headquarters
The imagery of Gestapo headquarters -- its imposing nature, the Nazi flag that adorns it, and the people who live and work inside it -- are meant to invoke fear into the readers and the characters in the novel. Additionally, this imagery is a source of dread for each of the characters in the book; as the novel approaches its end, the imagery becomes more common, building toward Franz's death.
