Stars and Space
In Only the Animals, celestial bodies and space symbolize the close relationship between humans and animals across time and place—a relationship that’s sometimes mutually beneficial, but sometimes violent. This symbolism is clearest in the…
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Food
In Only the Animals, food represents humans’ capacity for both kindness and cruelty, particularly as it relates to the way they treat animals. Many of the stories depict humans offering food to animals during…
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Zoos
In Only the Animals, zoos symbolize humans’ power over animals. The various animals in the collection who live in zoos, such as Red Peter, the black bear, and the elephants Castor and…
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