Dementia and imagery
Dementia could be understood as a kind of degradation of imagery, because it eliminates Ptolemy's perception of reality little by little. The imagery depicting this is harrowing and painful. He watches reality without understanding it, and he hears words but struggles to interpret them. He is slowly becoming more dependent on the care of others, and when Reggie dies, the imagery points ominously toward death.
Imagery of paranoia
Ptolemy's journey takes him through new experiences, but they aren't good ones. He is continually traumatized by his dependency, his growing paranoia and fear, and the horrible imagery that is introduced to him through his vulnerability. His vulnerability is exploited by his neighbor who robs him, and this is an external depiction of his internal fear. He is appropriately paranoid, because his fears are realistic. Unfortunately, there are many who exploit the vulnerable, and his battle against time is not going so well.
Robyn and the imagery of hope
Robyn comes into his life like a divine helper. Instead of a young protagonist coming into contact with their ancestry, this imagery reverses that. Robyn comes to save Ptolemy, and she cleans his place and lets the light in, both strong visual indications of something better, cleaner, and more hopeful for Ptolemy. She brings hope to him, and community. Through love, he realizes that there is still hope for more joy during his time on earth, though his perception is waning.
The clarity of dying
When Robyn takes Ptolemy to the doctor, they learn of a new drug that will radically alter Ptolemy's life. First, it will reduce the mental fog and forgetfulness that are slowly eroding his awareness of reality, and secondly, they will reduce his life expectancy. The imagery is clear. He is allowed mental clarity, but only if he is willing to accept a quick death. He is excited by this, showing how important clarity is to the man.
