The Sun (Symbol)
The Sun is a powerful symbol of health and power. In the novel, many of the novel's robots are solar-powered and are only able to function because of the power of the sun. Without it, they wouldn't be able to enact their influence on the world. Klara asserts, "...and the Sun, noticing, was pouring his nourishment on them." She observes a touching reunion between an elderly couple on a busy street. The metaphor of the sun pouring nourishment highlights Klara's perception of the Sun as a benevolent and life-giving force. Klara attributes to it the power to heal and rejuvenate, much like humans attribute these qualities to a divine being. The symbol underscores the theme of care, as Klara believes that the Sun has a direct influence on the well-being of those she cares about. This nourishment from the Sun symbolizes hope, life, and the possibility of renewal. Klara's belief in the Sun's power reflects her childlike understanding of the world, where love and care are almost magical forces capable of overcoming any adversity.
Cootings Machine (Symbol)
The Cootings Machines throughout the novel, which block the rays from the sun hitting the earth, are symbols of death and destruction. Not only do these machines block out the sun's rays, they kill everything that depends on the rays, including humans and robots. They are the embodiment of the potential pitfalls of technology, which now rules the world.
Illness (Motif)
Throughout the novel, several children, but most prominently Josie and Rick, suffer from illnesses that impact their quality of life. For instance, Rick has an intellectual disability (at least according the powers that be in the novel), limiting the quality of his life. The illnesses many of the characters in the novel face emphasize the dystopian nature of the environment described in the novel.
Climate Change (Allegory)
Klara and the Sun is an allegory warning against the dangers of climate change. In the novel, humanity has created machines that spew pollution out of their spouts and prevent the sun from shining down on the earth. These machines are analogues for the things humans do (like driving cars and manufacturing) that are human-created and damage the earth.
Touch (Motif)
Throughout the novel characters are constantly touching each other, whether on the arm or the shoulder, in order to convey the sincerity of emotion or sentiment they are expressing. This is seen as a very human behavior, something that asks readers to consider the ways in which humans find ways to connect with others when society seems to become more isolating and elitist.
