Onions are the single most important symbol in the work. They represent sadness and acceptance of the tragedy that can overtake lives. Eddie imagines that there is one big onion located somewhere under the city, sending up vapors of sadness. He is surprised to find what looks to be an onion bulb in Mr. Stiles’ north Fresno backyard. One of his temporary employers has a face that seems to be made of onion skin. Onion fumes in Fresno seem to come up through the asphalt and are a constant, pervasive smell in Fresno’s alleys. 

Water is a subtle symbol in the novel. Eddie often goes to the fridge to get a glass of very cold water from the pitcher he keeps there. Water is key in the scene of rebirth and rejuvenation at the river. Eddie can’t swim well but he can float and enjoys the feeling of the water. 

There are many crosses and crucifixes in the book. We don’t see anyone in church, but Soto consistently presents the Christian cross as jewelry—faith has been made into fashion, and effectively commodified.