Stars
Throughout the novel, stars are portrayed not only as a tool for navigation on the high seas; they also symbolize the guiding light in a person's life. In a tumultuous time, they represent hope, direction, and consistency despite seemingly constant change.
The sea
The sea is symbolic of the opportunity and danger Bowditch and other sailors face on a daily basis. Bowditch went to the sea in an effort to learn more about himself and learn more about two subjects he is passionate about: math and navigation.
Books
Books are symbolic of an escape for Bowditch. At an early age, he was taken out of formal school by his father so that he could help him in his shop. Having been deprived of a formal education, Bowditch turned to books as a means to escape his harsh reality and to help him learn about the things he would have learned in a more formal setting.
Bowditch's sea journeys
The journeys that Bowditch takes are an allegory for the journeys that people take throughout their lives. Like life, each sea voyage has its challenges, dangers, successes, and potential learning moments.
The albatross
The albatross in the novel is symbolic of the unknown things that can be found throughout the sea and of good luck.
