Pablos’ Parents (Symbols of laziness)
Pablo's parents symbolize laziness because they are not ready to do a meaningful economic activity to generate income. The mother is a witch who has nothing to do with genuine income generation. On the other hand, the father is a thief and relies on forcefully getting free things from the innocent people he steals from.
The symbolism of greediness
The character, Cabra, symbolizes greediness. Despite being a teacher who should ensure the well being of his students, Cabra makes the children starve, which pushes them to steal. For instance, Pablo steals a cabbage during a carnivore to satisfy his anger, realizing that he is good at stealing.
The symbolism of crime
Pablos symbolizes celebrated crime in his neighbourhood. With time, Pablos becomes a villain who is clever and most feared in the neighbourhood. The reader also learns that fellow criminals respect Pablos because he is the one who plots most of the destructive activities carried out by the criminals.
Don Toribio’s gang
Don Toribio’s gang symbolizes the dark side of Madrid. When Pablos arrives in Madrid, he is welcomed to the new territory by Toribio, who shows him around and how to operate with the city. The criminal in Madrid calls their profession 'brotherhood,' which means unity. Towards the end of the story, this symbolism shows that the life of a criminal is short.
