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The Garden
The garden represents the Sheridan family’s status. It is superficial and showy. It is perfectly arranged and manicured by a hired gardener. It is also like the Biblical Garden of Eden. With the knowledge of death, Laura leaves her sheltered paradise, journeying into the harsher world.
Flowers often carry unspoken meaning. The roses in the Sheridans’ garden represent their showy wealth. The lavender that the workman smells symbolize devotion and virtue. The lilies represent death and resurrection, reminding us of life's fleeting nature.
The karaka trees are the only native plants mentioned in the story. They are “lovely” and “beautiful,” but hidden behind the marquee. They symbolize the desire of wealthy New Zealanders to appear British and sophisticated, blocking out the native culture.
The Marquee
The marquee symbolizes the Sheridan children’s sheltered upbringing. It is a large tent that provides shelter in the garden. While her family stays in the marquee after the party, Laura ventures out to deliver food to the Scotts. She symbolically leaves the shelter of family to the uncertainty of the outer world.
Laura’s Hat
Laura’s hat is new and extravagant. Mrs. Sheridan bought it for herself but decides it’s “much too young” for her. The hat represents upper-class society and the corrupting influence of wealth. It distracts Laura from thinking about the poor dead man. And since Mrs. Sheridan gives her hat to Laura, it also represents the mother passing down her worldview to her daughter.
The Road
The road to the Scotts’ house represents Laura’s journey towards maturity and experience. She ventures into the unknown and returns better for the experience. The broad road symbolizes the dividing line between the upper and lower classes.
