Ice
Ko writes, “Fordham Road was usually quiet in the snow. Ice covered the sidewalk in front of an abandoned building, a reddish piece of gum clinging to it like a lonely pepperoni atop a frozen pizza." This winter is never-ending," Deming's mother said, and they gripped each other's arms for balance as they made their way across the sidewalk." The snow generates the ambiance of the foremost chapter which is the exposition of Deming’s life. It is winter; hence, they endure cold and snow while they are navigating the road on their way to the apartment.
GPA
Ko elucidates, "He'd seen the letter that had arrived from the dean at the end of last semester, the bold print detailing the terms of his academic dismissal. After his spring semester GPA fell to a 1.9, the school had put him on probation, and in October, he stopped going to classes." Daniels' unimpressive GPA confirms that he is not dedicated to studying. He does not make effort in his studies resulting to low scores which reduces his GPA. Daniel lacks an academic mindset; he prefers pursuing music.
Ghosts
Ko explains, "On the topic of parental ghosts, Roland was dependable, unwavering. His own father had died when Roland was too young to remember and he'd never shown interest in learning more." Departed or disappeared parents are similar to ghosts because their memories are haunting. Roland confronts the ghost buy suppressing them because embracing them is distressing.
Guitar
Ko writes,“Roland had been telling people that his new project was his best yet, reunited with his original collaborator, with Daniel’s insane guitar.” The guitar denotes Daniel’s passion for music. He plays it insanely that it impressively entertains the audiences. Daniel is extremely dexterous in playing the guitar; it gives Roland confidence about their impressive performance.
Summer
Ko notes, “By July, Deming's mother had been gone for five months. Ever since the February day she disappeared, he had been waiting for sign that she’d be back, even assign that she was gone forever. The Summer was one big dead-end sign.” The discomforting summer heat convinces Daniel that his mother would not return to his life. His struggles to cool down in the summer is symbolic of his unconscious yearning to overcome the disappointment with his mother. After summer he no longer anticipates her.
