The Old man
The old man is perhaps a symbol for the fragility of life itself. He was once a young man full of life, but his life is now coming to an end. He is desperate to hold on to his life but at the same time, the clinicians and treatments are weighing him down.
Norval the Fish
The fish is a symbol of hope and also friendship for the old man. It is not stated whether the old man has any family or friends with him. The fish is the only constant thing in his life. The fish is always waiting for him when he leaves the hospital room, taking the place of friends and loved ones.
