The September 11 attacks
For Power, the September 11 attacks symbolize a moment in American history where America was vulnerable and needed help. In response, many countries stepped in to support. However, Power comments on the fact that in the past America had not been so quick to help other countries going through a crisis.
Genocide
In the book, Power writes about the origin of the word "genocide." For power, this word is a symbol fo the "ultimate crime," and represents one of the darkest aspects of humanity.
Turning away
A key motif of this book is the fact that America often "turned away" from genocides that took place in other countries. Power argues that America ought to have supported afflicted countries and condemned the atrocities of genocides, rather than ignoring them.
Yellow stars
In the book, Power alludes to the yellow star badges that were used during the Second World War to identify Jewish people in Germany. As such, they ultimately symbolize the discrimination against Jewish people during this time in history.
The book of death
Lemkin refers to the "book of death," written by the Nazis using the blood of Jewish people. This is a powerful and tragic symbol representing the deaths of many innocent people during the holocaust.
