Woodbine Racetrack
This is a brief image but a potent one: Sylvie's father asks her if she wants to go to the racetrack with him when he gets better, and she thinks of the racetrack as "the kind of place where parents looked through the windows at the action but not at their kids" (138). Readers can easily picture a group of adults anxiously looking out at the track while their listless and neglected children try to amuse themselves and not get in the way. This image speaks to Sylvie's father's shortcomings as a parent.
Christmas Eve
This Christmas Eve is a bittersweet time for many Scarborough residents, for there is an apartment fire that takes the lives of Cory and Laura. Through the character of Lady, Hernandez describes the residents watching the firemen deal with the blaze: "Outside, Christmas lights blinked on and off on the balconies while water was hosed onto the building. We all stood outside, our jaws dropped, watching firemen douse the flames, most tenants in pyjamas that were flapping in the freezing wind, waiting for news" (178). The image of the lights, charming and celebratory, contrasts with the image of the disaster and the beleaguered residents waiting to get back into their apartments on a night that should be peaceful and cozy.
Bing at the Concert
All of the details of Bing at the concert give an image of a boy coming into his own, asserting his true self. He is depicted as dancing boldly, singing confidently, wearing a sparkling halter under his tuxedo, and beaming with pride. The audience is depicted as meeting his performance with rapturous acclaim; together, these images form a memorable and heart-tugging image of pure joy.
Sylvie at the Powwow
Similar to Bing at the concert, the image of Sylvie at the powwow is one of confidence and pride. She is happy to be with her people, happy to be with her friend, and happy that her mother is happy. She is an image of growth and maturity as she is depicting a positive future for herself and her family.
