Imagery of Spring
The imagery of spring used throughout the novel symbolizes new beginnings and growth. For example, when Daunis makes the decision to stay in Sault Ste. Marie and attend Lake State University, she describes the feeling as "a new spring in my step." The imagery of spring also reflects the season of renewal and healing following the deaths of Uncle David and Lily. The idea of new beginnings is further emphasized by Daunis's decision to embark on her undercover investigation with Jamie, which she describes as "a spark of life, like a plant finally getting the sun it needs after a long winter." Additionally, the imagery of spring is used to contrast with the harsh winter weather and bleak events that have occurred in the novel, providing a sense of hope and possibility.
Imagery of Ice and Hockey
The imagery of ice and hockey is used to symbolize the characters' experiences of masculinity, aggression, and tradition. For example, when Daunis and Jamie attend the Supes' hockey game, she describes the feeling of being on the ice as "a rush of adrenaline, a feeling of flying." The imagery of hockey also reflects the characters' experiences of growing up in a predominantly white, male-dominated community and their struggles to navigate their identities as Native American and mixed-race individuals. For instance, when Jamie tells Daunis about his experiences growing up as a Cherokee in a white community, he describes feeling like "an outsider, like I didn't belong on the ice with the other kids." The imagery of ice and hockey also reflects the characters' struggles with issues of power and control, as seen in the aggressive behavior of some of the hockey players and the violent events that occur at the party.
Imagery of Nature
The imagery of mushrooms and the natural world is used to symbolize the characters' connection to their Anishinaabe heritage and the importance of traditional knowledge and practices. For example, when Daunis and Jamie go mushroom hunting on Duck Island, she describes the feeling of being in the forest as "peaceful and calming, a reminder of who I am and where I come from." The imagery of mushrooms also reflects the characters' interest in the potential healing properties of traditional medicines and the importance of preserving and passing down Anishinaabe knowledge and culture. This is seen in Daunis's relationship with her grandmother, GrandMary, who is a traditional healer and teaches Daunis about the medicinal properties of various plants and fungi. The imagery of the natural world also provides a contrast to the industrial and urban setting of Sault Ste. Marie, emphasizes the importance of the Anishinaabe connection to the land and the need to protect the natural environment.
