Shredded Tenderness
The play’s title is a multi-faceted symbol that represents a number of aspects commented upon in the play. Each of these things is forwarded first as an entity invested with tenderness and it is revealed how in each case this tenderness has been ripped to shreds. Among the literal occurrences which are symbolized by the title are sibling interrelations, the treatment of refugees seeking asylum from political oppression, the collapse of the system of authority devised to protect citizens when that authority is turned against them, parental favoritism and a host of other social constructions expected to be built on the idea of tenderness which in this case has been ripped apart.
The Newspaper Obituary
Odie’s placement of an obituary announcement in the paper for Wak is a symbol of foreshadowing. It is not just ironic foreshadowing of Wak’s return from the grave; it is also a symbolic enactment of Odie’s literal desire to have Wak disinherited and remove any claim to familial bonds. It is, of course, a symbolic death wish since he knows Wak is still alive.
The Primer Game
The word game that the three siblings play is also a symbolic process of acting out. Odie’s over the top behavior to control the game and assert dominance becomes a symbol of his underlying psychological state. He is envious, violent, selfish, insecure and allegorically reveals all the familiar attributes and character flaws associated with tyrants, despots, dictators and sociopaths.
The Termites
The termites are also quite a multi-faceted symbol. At various points the creatures come to represent Wak and Odie’s desire for revenge, the insurgency and how Odie must put up a defense, the way a police state oppressed their people and even how after the death of soldiers, the onus to fight tyranny is placed on the women left behind.
Ice and Bunsen Burner
The ice and the Bunsen burner which Odie uses to torture the termites may seem to be the most obvious symbols in the play. As representatives cold and heat, they are emblematic of the preferred methods for torturing enemies of the state. Beneath that, however, is a subtler implication that expands upon the obvious symbolism, but which is not immediately apparent. Such torture is often designed to extract confessions from political prison. Or, in other words, to either identify those who have betrayed or to create one who has betrayed. This thematic aspect of the fire and heat will loom large as the narrative plays out.
