Water
Water is a symbol of death. In the novel, The Covenant of Water, the family of Ammachi’s husband is cursed because some family members die each generation by drowning. Throughout the novel, water is a dominant feature in Kerala, which reminds readers of the secret medical condition that affects Ammachi's new family. During her lifetime as the matriarch of Parambil, Ammachi experiences sorrows caused by water because several family members drown.
The boat
The boat symbolizes the new beginning for Mariamma, a 12-year-old child bride. After the death of Marimma’s father, she is sent to meet her 40-year-old husband, and she travels by boat. While travelling by boat, Mariamma thinks of the new responsibilities as a mother, a wife and a property owner. The boat is an important symbol because it enables Mariamma to imagine her everyday joys and sorrows after marriage.
500 Acres of Parambil
The 500 acres of Parambil symbolize Mariamma’s maturity. When Mariamma is first introduced in the novel, she is a 12-year immature child set to get married to a 40-year-old widower. However, after a few years of marriage, Marianna is nicknamed Ammachi the matriarchy because she successfully manages the 500 acres of Parambil she inherited from her husband. Therefore, Mariamma transitions from a young, innocent girl into an experienced matriarch overseeing all her family affairs.
