Desert
The imagery of deserts and dryness is prevalent in the novel, following the theme of an apocalyptic world. The imagery is emphasized by the suffering of people living in these dry conditions and hunting for a drop of water, after their water supplies had been cut off.
Water
From the title itself to the main theme of the novel, the water is a prevailing imagery. The apocalyptic world where water is scarce and expensive, it is regarded as a blessing or a miracle. Water is the main currency, and the main tool for controlling people and the “water knife” is a tool of that control.
“Godwater. Water that fell of its own volition, right out of the sky.”
Religious imagery
Religious imagery is present throughout the novel, from the discussion of devils and angels in form of people, to the discussions of life and death.
“A city could blossom in a desert. The river was a blessing as sure as the Virgin Mother’s.”
Vet
The image of the character of Vet as an embodiment of evil is a striking part of the novel. The name is mentioned throughout, almost as a myth, but the first appearance is in front of Maria, who is fearing for her life. She describes him as death, with eyes that had seen too much horror and from which nothing can be hidden. He is compared to the hyenas he keeps for his own entertainment, not a person, but a pure predator.
