Shimmering Skies
Ben leans against the windowsill observing the clouds and reminiscing about his past. The narrator states, "He watched the clouds roll in. He thought about the times when the aurora borealis, the northern lights, appeared in the night sky. Everyone along the lake would call one another, no matter what time it was, so they could watch the strange shimmering curtains vibrating above them." The quote illustrates Ben's recollection of watching the aurora borealis with his mother by the lake. This imagery of the aurora borealis serves as a powerful symbol of wonder and connection. It displays the bond between Ben and his mother as they stand outside together appreciating the marvel of the night sky. Thus, it portrays the complexity of human emotions and the way the beauty of nature inspires.
Pencil Magic
Selznick masterfully uses intricate pencil illustrations to convey rich imagery that complements the narrative. Through these visuals, readers are transported to the vivid worlds of both Ben and Rose. The detailed drawings capture the essence of New York City in the 1970s and the bustling streets during its heyday in 1927. The artwork conveys the isolation and wonder that Ben experiences as he navigates his silent world. Meanwhile, the illustrations depicting Rose's journey depict the glamour of the silent film era. The imagery's seamless integration with the text enriches the story offering readers a multisensory experience that underscores the themes.
Shadows of Memory
After the funeral, Ben returns to his house in the dark. The narrator describes, "The stones of Gunflint Lake glittered faintly in the darkness. Under a vault of shaking black branches, he ran. The doors to his house, like nearly all the doors along the lake, were unlocked. The flowers and food from the funeral had been cleared out, but the owl-shaped cookie jar sat on the counter with its head off, the way it always had." This imagery effectively sets the scene and creates a sense of atmosphere and emotion. The darkness and the shaking branches in the woods contribute to the spooky atmosphere, which heightens the tension as Ben hurries toward his home. As Ben enters his home, he discovers familiar objects that trigger memories of his late mother. The jar's unchanged position represents the continuity of life in the absence of his mother.
Starry Whispers
As Ben approaches her mother’s room, he notices a framed Van Gogh print on the wall. It is described as "A big black tree and a swirling night sky with golden stars." Van Gogh, a famous Dutch painter, was known for his intense and expressive artworks that often depicted nature and the night sky. The swirling night sky in the painting could represent the tumultuous emotions and uncertain circumstances that Ben is facing. The print enhances the emotional depth and complexity of the scene. It infuses the passage with a sense of wonder, fear, and introspection resonating with the themes of exploration and the unknown.
