The black cake
The black cake symbolizes the family bond. The cake is prepared during family gatherings, a common tradition among the Caribbean communities. Before Eleanor left home for London and the United States of America, she prepared a black cake and stored it in her fridge. Many years later, she commanded her children to go home and share the care equally. The children obliged their late mother’s wishes, and after sharing the black cake, their bond strengthened, and they decided to live as one united family.
The train
The train symbolizes Covey’s new identity as Eleanor Bennett. After the train crash, rescuers mistake Covey for Eleanor, who dies during the accident. After Covey arrives in Scotland, she takes up Eleanor’s new job. Covey lives the rest of her life with the new identity, and she only reveals the truth to her children after her death through a tape recording.
The Ocean
The ocean symbolizes the new beginning for Benny, Byron, and their stepsister. The three siblings throw their late parents’ ashes into the ocean, which symbolizes their new beginning. The reader realizes these three siblings had lived secluded lives in the past. For instance, Benny left home and never called to inquire about her family until her parents’ death. The stepsister never knew that Byron and Benny were her siblings. However, after throwing their late parents’ ashes into the ocean, they reconcile and start living as one united family.
