The family pub
The family pub symbolizes the division between Catholic and Protestant believers. Loudmouthed Protestant men frequent the pub every evening. The Catholic men avoid going to the pub because of the endless ridicule from the Protestant men. The family pub is situated in Garrison town, which is predominantly Protestant. Cushla worries that their family pub might collapse if the conflict between the Catholic and Protestant customers persists.
Gin Benders
The gin benders symbolize depression. Since the death of her husband, Gina has become an alcoholic because that is the only way she can forget him. After drinking too much alcohol, Gina leaves the house messy, and Cushla is forced to clean. Gina does not listen to anybody when drunk, and her children prefer to leave her alone.
The tobacco
The tobacco symbolizes romance. When Michael lights his tobacco, he notices Cushla standing at a distance. Michael sees Cushla’s beautifully curved body between the Puffs of tobacco smoke and instantly falls in love with her. Michael does not hide his intentions because he quickly approaches Cushla and expresses his feelings towards her.
