The snowstorm is the most important symbol in “The Painted Door.” In terms of the plot, it sets the events in motion, but its symbolic meaning is also essential to the heart of the story. In general, the cold and ice represent the relationship between John and Ann. Ann feels frosty resentment toward John. While she disagrees with his decision to visit his father, she cannot articulate her profound loneliness—the deeper root of the issue. Just as the storm leaves them physically isolated, Ann is also emotionally isolated, even when she and John are together.

Furthermore, the strength of the storm reflects Ann’s inner conflict. As the storm threatens, her thoughts are dark and brooding, and after John leaves, her emotions become more tumultuous as the blizzard picks up. By the evening, when Ann is in the greatest state of confusion about John and Steven, the storm is at its worst. By morning, both her mind and the skies are clear.

Fire symbolizes the opposite of cold and snow. It represents emotional warmth and passion. Throughout the story, Ann keeps adding logs to the fire to keep warm, but with the strength of the storm, it seems like a futile effort to keep the cold away.