Millie's outfit
Millie's maid outfit is symbolic of her profession. It embodies her day-to-day duties and what her clients call her to do; it also shows the burden she bears to take care of the family that employs her both physically and emotionally.
The Garricks
The Garricks themselves are powerful symbols of the upper-class. At first glance, they are kind and upstanding citizens who are exceptionally generous. However, they harbor deep and dark secrets beneath the surface.
The keyhole
The door's keyhole, which features prominently on the cover of the novel, is symbolic of the secrets in the Garrick household. It is only through something as small as a keyhole that Millie is able to see the abuse in the Garrick household; because of their wealth, they keep that part of their family secret.
Millie uncovering secrets
A common motif in the novel is Millie uncovering secrets. Throughout the novel, Millie uncovers the secrets of the Garricks in a slow, but methodical way. She uncovers the abuse and the deception. She also discovers the true meaning of wealth and power.
