Flowing Rivers as Memory and Continuity
The recurring image of the river does more than set the scene—it embodies continuity, memory, and cultural heritage. At the harvest festival, the river's serene beauty inspires awe, and later becomes immortalized in Along the River at Qing Ming. Just as water flows endlessly, the painting symbolizes the unbroken link between generations, suggesting that art and memory outlast human life.
Dreamscapes and the Blurring of Realities
Dreams play a pivotal role in shaping the novel's atmosphere. CC's hypnotherapy sessions unfold with a dreamlike intensity, where fact and imagination merge. The imagery of blurred visions, half-remembered details, and surreal sensations allows readers to experience the uncertainty of living between two worlds—the modern present and the Song Dynasty past. Dreams here are not just private experiences; they are portals to truth.
Birds in Flight and the Longing for Freedom
Bird imagery captures the universal desire for liberation. Dr. Allen's encouragement for CC to "spread her wings" suggests healing through exploration. Later, Ah Zhao's act of releasing pigeons reflects his inner struggle—yearning for autonomy while being confined by class and imperial power. Birds, whether caged or soaring, symbolize the fragile balance between confinement and freedom that echoes through every character's journey.
Art as Living Imagery
Beyond natural and dream elements, art itself becomes imagery that transcends the page. Ah Zhao's paintings, Mei Lan's poetry, and even the delicate carving of the stone snail illustrate how creativity can capture feelings that words fail to express. Each piece of art becomes an image in itself—a visual metaphor for love, struggle, and resilience.
