Carey
Carey is the protagonist of this novel and represents the potential for AI technology and the issues that come with it. Despite not being human, Carey symbolizes humanity and kindness, proving to have high empathy and consideration towards the Owens family.
Shapeshifting motif
Shapeshifting is a key motif in the text, as this is something Carey often does. Significantly, Carey shapeshifts in order to help Mildred, as she suffers from Alzheimer's. Carey transforms into Mildred's loved ones, in order to help her to remember them and to comfort her. This includes her son Paul, her nurse and her late husband Henry. Carey also shapeshifts for the benefit of other characters in the text, and this trait is often what makes the android endearing.
Flowers
At the beginning of the text, Carey tells us about "becoming" Paul and bringing Mildred flowers: "I always bring flowers. Mildred appreciated them no matter who I am emulating." The flowers therefore represent Carey's kindness and compassion towards Mildred. Carey is aware of what makes Mildred happy and does her best to look after her.
