The Mask of an old man
The author symbolizes human developmental changes using the ‘mask of an old man’. At first glance, the old man’s face is indecipherable but taking a closer look one realizes that it is historically nebulous with occult signs. However, when carefully glanced at one realizes that there are several features when combined the make a human face. Similarly, the author uses the symbol ‘mask of an old man’ to explain the different developmental changes an adolescent goes through before maturity.
A Pachuco
The author uses "pachuco" as a symbol of terror, insecurity, and loathing. Pauchos are young Mexicans in North America with no identity. They consider themselves as disgusting to society in which they live because of their behavior. Their deeds do not conform to societal norms in North America. For instance, they are dangerous because they are involved in crime and other related activities making them a security threat to North American society.
A wound
Octavio Paz symbolically writes:
“A wound that laughs at itself and decks itself out for the hunt”
The word ‘Wound’ is symbolical to refer to the Pachuco who is not ashamed of his bad attributes and behavior, which does not conform to the North American Society. Instead of hiding and acting behind the scenes, he walks freely not knowing that he is being hunted.
A Flower
The author uses a flower as an allegory to show the extent to which Mexicans feel lonely in North America. When the narrator asks his friend about the loveliness of Berkeley, she answers:
“I can enjoy a flower if I do not know it’s right name?”
She admits that Berkeley is lovely but she feels isolated because she does not belong there. A flower symbolizes North America which despite being lovely, a Mexican still feels inaccessible.
The sun
The sun is symbolically used to refer to the ancient bright days for Mexicans. Currently, Mexicans living in North America feel that their days are dark because they do not enjoy fully what life offers. Before North American independence, Mexicans had freedom and they controlled much wealth which gave them an opportunity to enjoy what life offered. However, that is not the case now as the author writes:
“He wants to be a sun again, to return to the center of that life from which he was separated one day”
The Mexican wants to shine again and get back to a better life.
