A Good Neighborhood

Xavier’s guitar is a symbol of his determination and his future. Xavier bought his favorite guitar after saving up his money so he could afford the $6,000 instrument. This shows that “he [is] no slacker” (128). Xavier’s determination is also symbolized through learning to play guitar and through taking an interest in classical guitar, which is an uncommon field to specialize in.

The guitar symbolizes Xavier’s future and his hope. His dream is to attend an impressive school and to pursue a career in music. However, his dream is crushed when his hand is destroyed by the men who attack Xavier. When Xavier loses his ability to play guitar, he no longer sees a bright future for himself.

Juniper’s car is a symbol of her growing desire for independence. With the car, she is able to travel by herself to and from work and the park, and she can also use the car to meet Xavier. The car provides her with a means of escape from her overbearing parents and the strict rules they have set.

The tracker placed in Juniper’s car symbolizes the control her parents fight to keep as Juniper seeks independence, and the fact that Brad purchased the car under strict conditions reflects the power he holds over Juniper. Juniper attempts to evade Brad’s control by meeting Xavier in an approved location—the state park—and he always drives separately, thereby following the rule that she cannot have boys in the car. Brad, however, has deluded himself into thinking that Juniper wants his attention, and he does not feel Juniper deserves independence or respect. He does not question the immorality of using the tracker to find Juniper in the park so he can attempt to have sex with her. Juniper’s car, which is supposed to bring her freedom, is what brings trauma and destruction into her and Xavier’s lives.