The Goldfinch (Symbol)
The titular painting by Fabritius is a symbol for Theo's memories of his mother and the bombing, and the pain, guilt and trauma that surround those memories. Throughout the novel, Theo contends with the painting, and the anxiety and depression he feels about it. The painting is the last thing he sees with his mother before her death, but he is distracted by a girl he sees and doesn't appreciate the moment his mother is trying to share with him. So, when he takes the painting, he also takes that moment with him, and, much like the pain he feels, he is unable to talk about the painting or share it with anyone, because he is too afraid of what may happen.
Antiques (Motif)
Antiques appear throughout the book: the Barbours' home is filled with antiques, Hobie's shop is an antique store, and Theo later sells antiques in Hobie's shop. Antiques, remnants of the past that are preserved and coveted, also function as a metaphor in the novel, as Theo preserves The Goldfinch—and his memories—like antiques, while also selling false antiques, false perceptions of himself and lies, as part of his criminal activities.
Welty's Ring (Symbol)
Before his death, Welty passes a ring to Theo with instructions to bring it to Hobie, his business partner. This ring progresses the narrative and symbolizes a pact between Theo and Welty, a specific bond personified through a ring. The ring also connects Theo to Hobie and Pippa, and acts as a bridge between the death and destruction caused by the bombing, and the objects that preserve the memory of the people who die.
Letters (Motif)
Throughout the novel, Theo writes letters, many of which he does not send. These letters allow Theo to write down thoughts that he cannot otherwise communicate, and he ties these letters to his inability to speak to his mother, and communicate everything he still wants to say to her. The letters also serve as an allusion to Dickens and other epistolary novels.
Necklace (Symbol)
Theo leaves Pippa a necklace, an expensive topaz girandole necklace for his "fairy queen." This necklace symbolizes the worth he attributes to Pippa, and the magic he sees in her. To him, she is a fairy, a wonderful creature, but also a construction of his mind, and, at times, a dream more than a person. The necklace also symbolizes his attempt to convince Pippa of his love and to adequately convey how much she means to him.
