Machado’s Doorknob
In the Dream House, the doorknob symbolizes Machado's sanctuary and security. When Machado locks herself inside the bedroom, her parents break the doorknob to get her out. The breaking of the doorknob represents the deprival of Machado's privacy and personal space she wanted. Throughout her life, Machado discovers that she has no self-advocacy, and she blames her parents for depriving her of privacy when she was a child.
The Dream House
The Dream House is a symbol of Machado's trauma and trepidation. Throughout the memoir, Machado reminds readers that the Dream House is not an illusion but a real place in Bloomington City. When Machado gets into a relationship with a Dream House woman, she experiences trauma and fear that she recounts in the memoir. The Dream House signifies the dangers of abusive same-sex relationships. Machado advises readers that instead of staying in the Dream House, it is better to get out of the abusive relationship and move on.
Pastor Joel’s church
Pastor Joel's church is a symbol of sexual assault. Pastor Joel is a paradoxical character because he takes advantage of the naivety of the girls who come to his church to assault them sexually. For instance, when Machado attends the church, Pastor Joel forms a close friendship with her to have sex with her.
