The lighter that Dominic clicks on and off at different points in the novel symbolizes the fragile state of his relationship with Alessandra. She gave the lighter to Dominic years ago, reminding him, “No matter how dark it gets, you can always find a light” (158). Dominic holds onto this lighter during his darkest and most stressful moments. For example, at the beginning of the novel, when Dominic stays late at work and misses meeting Alessandra for their 10-year anniversary trip, he clicks his lighter in the midst of his distress, and the “solid, comforting weight of silver focuse[s] [his] thoughts on the task at hand instead of the insidious whispers crowding [his] brain [and] filling [his] head with doubts” (14). Although Dominic does not yet realize it, he clings to the memory and presence of Alessandra to get him through work emergencies and conquer the doubtful voices in his head. Although he might outwardly prioritize work over Alessandra, she represents his highest priority even though he fails to articulate his love to her in a meaningful way for 10 years of marriage.

After Alessandra divorces Dominic, he begins clicking the lighter not in response to work stressors, but whenever he thinks of their relationship.