Both of the lead characters are different from the rest; both are hermits in their own separate ways, and their views on our world are accordingly diverse. ... The symbolism of death is most obvious, ranging from the skeleton-like exotic stranger (pg.198-99) encountered in the opening, to the gondolier (pg. 215-17), evidently embodying Charon, ferryman of the Styx in Hades. ... While both of the main characters let the pursuit of artistic feats encourage them in their doings, their roads differ. ...

• Word Count: 1221
• Approx Pages: 5
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: Undergraduate