"Along the River at Qing Ming" painting
The painting "Along the River at Qing Ming" is the center of the novel. It initiates the plot and through it Mei Lan's story is told. It is a painting that symbolizes the purity of friendship and connection between the three individuals who became close friends despite their differences. The painting is also a symbol of connection with the past as it inspires CC's leap into the past life.
Three perfections: painting, calligraphy, and poetry
These three perfections are motifs that are present throughout the novel. Ah Zhao uses art to express himself, to express his desire for recognition and freedom, and he finds beauty in the most unusual objects. Ah Zhao's painting "Along the River at Qing Ming" is the key of the plot and the message of connection with the past. Mei Lan is a poet and her poems are scattered throughout as well, as a form of expression of her desire to be free and to be able to pursue her passion.
Stone snail
Ah Zhao dedicates a figure of a snail to Mei Lan. He says that he thought of a little girl who is too shy to show her talents, just like a snail is shy to show its horns. It symbolizes Mei Lan's hidden dreams, but it also symbolizes their spiritual connection.
Picture for Mei Lan
Mei Lan receives a strange picture from Ah Zhao which is a sign for her to run away with him. The picture contains both of their insecurities, Mei Lan's broken toes which are a flaw to her beauty, and Ah Zhao's big nose which makes him different from the rest. The painting symbolizes their connection which is strengthened by shared vulnerability.
