The symbolism of the copper coin shifts as Hiram matures. At first, the coin represents Hiram’s ticket out of the Street and into the mansion of Lockless. More broadly, it represents his desire to escape slavery and gain access to the privileged...
In the novel, The Water Dancer, water is a source of supernatural power.... the power that some slaves have to harness memory and water as a means of magical, rapid transportation.
The Water Dancer study guide contains a biography of Ta-Nehisi Coates, literature essays, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.