Jungle Crow
The jungle crow is a symbol of hope. The crow is a native to Japan, but is seen on the small Canadian island that Ruth and Oliver inhabit. It is able to traverse through time as it leads Ruth through her dreams to Haruki #2. It leads Oliver to the lost Pesto, who would not have been found otherwise. The crow is a hope for survival and redemption.
Hello Kitty Lunchbox
The Hello Kitty Lunchbox is a symbol of childhood innocence. Nao's diary tells of a horrible childhood plagued by bulling and sexual assault. Her innocence is lost, yet Nao is still a child who enjoys the objects of childhood. The Hello Kitty Lunchbox is not a place one expects to find a journal chronicling a young girl's brutalized childhood that makes her see suicide as the only answer. The contrast between the two shows the contrast between who Nao is and who people believe her to be.
Trains
Trains are a symbol of suicide. In Japan, citizens jump in front of trains so often that families are billed for the cost of cleaning the railway. it is easy to just step off the platform and have ones struggles cease. Life in Japan is so fast moving that some people cannot keep up with the pace and feel left behind. The fast moving train to them is their life speeding out of their control and to attempt to gain control they step in front of the moving train.
Buddhist Temple
A Buddhist Temple is a place of tranquility and respite from the constant bustle of the outside world. Nao feels at peace in the temple. Life is easier to understand and people are not competing against one another. Life in Japan is fast moving and people are always striving to be promoted and be successful. The temple is a symbol of peace in this turmoil. The pace is slow and one is seeking internal validation rather than external validation.
Nao's Diary
Nao's Diary is a symbol of emotional growth. Nao writes about all the horrible things that happen to her at her school and the lonely life that she leads. Writing all of this down helps her to put things in perspective and gain a better understanding of herself and her family. Nao contemplates suicide, but taking the time to write about her life and her experiences makes her see that there are other alternatives and this growth helps her to overcome her traumatic childhood and become a stronger person.
