Edward’s Volvo symbolizes Edward himself. Much of this has to do with Volvo’s brand reputation: Volvos are known for being extremely safe cars, and Edward—like a Volvo—throws himself into physically protecting Bella over the course of the novel. Just as a Volvo is intended to protect passengers from harm in the event of a traffic accident, Edward consistently places himself between Bella and various dangers, such as Tyler’s van, the men in Port Angeles, and, ultimately, James.
The Volvo also embodies Edward’s wealth and his pretentiousness. Volvos aren’t inexpensive cars, and the Volvo stands out in the Forks High School student parking lot amongst the Suburbans, minivans, and Sentras, just as the gorgeous and aloof Edward in his designer clothes is impossible to miss next to his mortal classmates. It’s the Volvo’s association with wealth and pretentiousness that stands out to Bella most in the novel, as when she sees a Volvo (presumably Edward’s) in Port Angeles, thinks of Edward, and grumbles to herself, “Stupid, shiny Volvo owner.”
The Volvo Quotes in Twilight
“I decided it didn’t matter,” I whispered.
“It didn’t matter?” His tone made me look up—I had finally broken through his carefully composed mask. His face was incredulous, with just a hint of the anger I’d feared.
“No,” I said softly. “It doesn’t matter to me what you are.”
A hard, mocking edge entered his voice. “You don’t care if I’m a monster? If I’m not human?”
“No.”
The Volvo Symbol Timeline in Twilight
