The Home
The home is a symbol in many stories, including "The Lodger," and "Party Under a Stone Wall." Snorri and his wife see their home as a symbol of their success and confidence; however, it ultimately becomes a symbol for their superficiality and their failed relationship.
Similarly, in "The Lodger," Peter and his wife see their home as a symbol to the rest of the world, showcasing their financial situation and relative success for everyone to see.
The Domestic Space
Svava's disturbing short stories often take place within the domestic space. This is significant, as Svava is suggesting something disturbing about societal expectations, and the demands placed on women.
A Mother's Sacrifice
"A Story for Children" is an allegory for the sacrifice mothers make for their children. Although they do not literally sacrifice their body parts like the protagonist in this story, they do sacrifice aspects of their own life, such as their independence and time for themselves.
The mother's brain
In Svava's disturbing short story "A Story for Children," her brain ultimately represents the emotional sacrifices she makes for her children. Svava uses this extreme image to show just how much mothers are expected to sacrifice for their children, in order to be seen as a "good mother."
Superficiality
Superficiality is a key motif seen across Svava's stories. The author often comments on societal pressure to appear wealthy or financially successful, showing how this can take a negative turn in many people's lives, leading to unhappiness and failed relationships.
