The horse GL brings home symbolizes the pent-up conflict in the Dunford family, which reaches its breaking point during the visit Charles pays to his mother. Like the horse, which at first appears “gentle” and tame, the discomfort among the Dunfords is initially subtle. Similar to how Eva suspects the horse is not naturally as calm as GL promises, Chig notices his father’s behavior and demeanor change.

As time passes, tension builds, and the family’s conversation begins “warming up like a teakettle” (59), much like the horse gradually becomes restless and agitated. Eventually, emotions intensify and the family’s unresolved issues surface, marking the turning point in the story, just as the horse suddenly gallops through the woods. The horse symbolizes the hidden turmoil that has been brewing beneath the surface of the Dunford family for years. Like the horse, the family members have the potential to be gentle and calm, but their unresolved conflicts and grievances are always present, simmering below the surface.

The Dunford family home symbolizes the family’s complex history, representing both comfort and conflict. As the place where Eva raised her children and where they all spent their formative years, the home is strongly connected to the past and familiarity.