The glass jar
To represent bad luck figuratively, the author uses the glass jar “In a Jar.” After moving into the reservation, David is a child and tries to look for his lost toy. While trying to locate his lost toy, David sees a glass jar full of hair, corn, and teeth. As a child, David does not comprehend the connotation of the contents of the glass, and he reports it to his mother. David's mother tells him that the glass jar is a bad omen and it has been sent to hurt them. The symbol shows the existence of magic and people's belief that evil spirits are always following them wherever they go.
Symbolism of love
One of the vital themes developed by Talty is sibling love, symbolized by the close relationship between David and Paige. Paige is David's old sister but she respects her younger brother. Similarly, David has perfect love for her sister and does everything he can to support her. For instance, when Paige loses her pregnancy, David stands for her until she gets out of the emergency safely.
Safe harbor
Safe Harbor is a symbol of fantasy heaven for the people living on the reservation. Most inhabitants of the reservation use drugs, thinking it is the perfect way to solve their problems. However, drugs give them false hope and a fantasy heaven that does not last long. David's mother smokes to get sleep but when she wakes up, she faces her problems. David and Fellis drink and smoke when bored but the reality of life hits them hard when sober.
