The Comet (symbol)
The comet represents both wonder and the passage of time. It reflects the intersection of scientific discovery and human longing, which are central themes in the narrative. For Thomas Hart, the comet is a symbol for his own life which is marked by waiting, anticipation, and the recognition of something beyond himself. The comet’s periodic return also mirrors the cycles of loss and discovery in his relationships. Furthermore, the comet symbolizes the transient nature of existence—just as the comet passes through the sky. Thomas's connection to the comet embodies a desire to make sense of these fleeting moments. This gives the comet a quasi-spiritual significance, as it aligns with the themes of faith and love.
Grace’s Red Velvet Coat (symbol)
Grace Macaulay’s red velvet coat symbolizes her passionate yet conflicted nature and her desire to be noticed. The vivid color of the coat sets her apart visually and emotionally, which emphasizes her longing for connection, especially with Nathan. Moreover, the coat is frequently associated with her moments of emotional intensity. Grace’s coat also ties into themes of identity and self-expression. It is a physical manifestation of her inner state, with the red symbolizing her boldness, but also the vulnerability that comes with love and expectation. Thus, it is as if she wears her heart on her sleeve however, this visibility does not guarantee reciprocation.
Astronomy (symbol)
Astronomy is a major symbolic thread throughout the novel. For Thomas, the stars represent both the infinite and the intimate. They are a way of connecting his quest for knowledge with the larger cosmos. The study of the movements of comets and celestial bodies provides him with a sense of purpose but also highlights his limitations. He struggles with scientific concepts by admitting his "stupidity" in grasping the electromagnetic spectrum. Thomas’s reflections on the stars and their movements highlight the intersection of science, faith, and the mystery of human existence.
The Letter (symbol)
Letters symbolize communication and the limits of understanding between characters. Thomas Hart’s letters are central to the unfolding mystery of the comet and the Lowlands House. The letters convey information and insights while also reflecting emotional undercurrents that remain unspoken in direct dialogue. For instance, Thomas’s correspondence about Maria’s comet expresses his frustration and longing for closure. In Grace's final letter to Nathan, her words reflect her hope for connection, but the act of writing itself underscores the isolation she feels.
Kepler’s Three Laws of Planetary Motion (allegory)
These laws serve as an extended allegory that parallels the relational dynamics, emotional movements, and existential quests of the characters. Kepler’s First Law states that planets move in elliptical orbits with the sun at one focus. It mirrors the characters’ elliptical non-linear journeys toward understanding themselves and each other. The Second Law explains that a line segment joining a planet and the sun sweeps out equal areas. This law can be read as an allegory for the fluctuations in intensity in the characters’ lives. Lastly, The Third Law reveals a relationship between the distance of planets from the sun and their orbital periods. This harmony between distance and time reflects the final stage of the characters’ journeys. The characters come to terms with their fates, relationships, and limitations.
