Seagull
Bach explains, “Seagulls, as you know, never falter, never stall. To stall in the air is for them disgrace and it is dishonour.” Seagulls are symbolic of honor. Accordingly, stalling and faltering is regarded as scandalous. Their ability to fly meticulous without falling is emblematic of perfection.
“Bone and feathers”
Livingston’s mother tells him, “ Why is it too hard to be like the rest of the flock, Jon? Why can't you leave low flying to the pelicans, the albatross? Why don't you eat? Son, you're bone and feathers!" The allegorical 'bone and feathers' denote Jon's malnutrition which could be ascribed to poor feeding. Jon spends his days practicing low flying instead of eating which impacts his form. His mother is concerned about his thinness based on the questions which she poses.
“World Record”
Bach writes, "From two thousand feet he tried again, rolling into his dive, beak straight down, wings full out and unstable from the moment he passed fifty miles per hour. It took tremendous strength, but it worked. In ten seconds he had blurred through ninety miles per hour. Jonathan had set a world speed record for seagulls!" The ‘world record’ indicates that Jonathan has surpassed the speed that is anticipated of ordinary seagulls. The record is a product of resilience and consistent practice. Jonathan’s attainment is a confirmation that abilities can be developed and expanded among animals and humans too.
