Hope
The novel begins by depicting Liza as a symbol of hope in her family. Despite coming from a family of 14 children, Liza is happy and optimistic that she will bring a difference to her family. When she gets an opportunity to work in a local factory, she does her best to support her low-income family. Liza's mother is an alcoholic and does little to support the family. However, Liza is hopeful that she will bring success to her family.
Unfaithfulness
To symbolize unfaithfulness in marriage, the author figuratively uses the character, Jim. Jim is married, and he has five children with his wife. However, when he sees a beautiful young girl, Liza, he is sexually attracted to her. Jim sees Liza secretly, and he finally impregnates her. When Jim's wife discovers the illicit affair, she fights with Liza, but that does not stop Jim from cheating on her.
True Love
The author symbolically uses the character Tom to represent the meaning of true love. Tom is in love with a beautiful young woman called Liza. When Tom approaches Liza to propose, she tells him she does not love him. Later, Tom discovers that Liza is having a sexual affair with a married man, but that does not discourage him from loving her. One day, Tom discovers that Jim has beaten Liza and injured her. Tom takes the responsibility of taking care of Liza until she recovers. Tom tells Liza he still loves her, but she tells him she is pregnant with Jim. Tom does not care about her pregnancy because he wants to marry Liza and take care of the baby. However, Liza still refuses to accept his proposal. Even after Liza dies out of excessive bleeding, Tom still loves her and vows to continue having affection for her until they meet again.
