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Symbols are objects, characters, figures, or colors used to represent abstract ideas or concepts.

Aces

Aces symbolize empowerment in the game between the sender and Ed Kennedy. As the card ranking highest in its suit, an ace confers great advantages to its holder in most card games. As Ed points out, players in a card game wish for four aces. The sender relies on Ed's understanding of the value of aces to initially enlist his cooperation and provide motivation. Aces not only underline the significance of the messages, but they also hold potential for success. Ed believes he holds the winning hand. He plays his cards right, dealing with situations strategically. For the rapist who has impunity under the law, Ed devises a solution that doesn't involve a legal remedy. For the priest losing his purpose in life, Ed mobilizes a new congregation. For a lonely woman dealing with regret, Ed provides a connection. In the end, Ed wins the game by becoming an agent of change in his community. 

Jimi Hendrix and Richard Pryor 

Jimi Hendrix and Richard Pryor symbolize the success that street kids in Ed’s world could identify with. Both men overcame impoverished childhoods and sexual abuse to become wealthy, powerful, and highly influential stars in their respective fields of rock music and comedy. Hendrix revolutionized rock music not only through his musicianship but also through exploring the feedback sounds of an electric guitar. Richard Pryor pushed the boundaries of cultural commentary and is considered one of the greatest stand-up comedians of all time. Ritchie’s tattooing of his inspiration Hendrix on his right arm makes clear to the entire world what his aspirations are in life, whether he acts on them or not. Ritchie wants to emulate that “self-made success” story, although he doesn’t take any action to make that dream a reality. Ritchie doesn’t yet know what he wants to do, so success will have to wait. When Ritchie confesses his lack of motivation, Ed imagines the tattoo winking at him, as if Hendrix has secretly been preparing a destiny for Ritchie all along. Ritchie’s friends’ observation that the inked artwork of Hendrix resembles Pryor shows that the tattoo has significance for all of the group. The shared cultural references enrich their camaraderie while challenging them to excel.

Doorman 

The relationship between Ed and Doorman symbolizes unconditional love. Ed accepts the aging dog's peculiarities including his terrible smell. He shares everything he has, from his coffee to his thoughts, with the dog. Doorman responds with loyalty. He was named for his habit of sitting in the warmth of the sunlight coming through the door. But his name signifies a gatekeeper, blocking the path of intruders and staying poised to raise an alarm. He expects to accompany Ed everywhere he goes, despite his advanced age. Doorman, at seventeen, has exceeded a dog's normal lifespan. His bad odor that persists despite all the grooming Ed has tried indicates the decay of approaching death. Imminent loss only increases Ed's devotion to Doorman. His and Doorman's steady companionship poignantly depicts affection without limitations, which his other relationships lack.

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