Five-Dollar Family Symbols

Family Portrait

In “Five-Dollar Family,” the family portrait symbolizes Michelle’s desire for the perfect family—or at least one that appears perfect on the outside. When the photographer prepares to take the portrait, Michelle poses Des and…

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Motorcycle Jacket

The leather motorcycle jacket that Des buys for Jason to wear in the family portrait has two layers of symbolic significance. On the surface, the jacket represents how Des and his parents gloss over Des’s…

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