* The polluted waterway and the ravaged ecosystem: The polluted water of the Florida Everglades itself is a massive symbol of environmental degradation and the destructive consequences of human negligence. The sick, mutated creatures, the dying plants, and the overall decay of the natural world directly reflect the moral decay of the characters who exploit it for profit.
* The albino alligator, "Whitey": Whitey acts as a powerful symbol of both the environmental destruction and the unpredictable consequences of tampering with nature. His albinism sets him apart, marking him as unusual and vulnerable, mirroring the fragility of the ecosystem itself. His actions, driven by hunger and instinct, highlight the consequences of the ecosystem's disruption – he becomes a threat, not because of inherent malice, but because of his altered environment.
* The different types of wildlife: The variety of animals affected (alligators, manatees, birds) showcase the broad impact of pollution and irresponsible development. Each animal suffering represents a loss of biodiversity and a failure to protect the natural world.
* The "Paradise" of the gated communities: The irony of the luxurious gated communities ironically named "Paradise" is a clear symbol of human hypocrisy and detachment from the consequences of their actions. These communities represent the privileged few who profit from environmental destruction while remaining oblivious or unconcerned about its impact on the wider environment and the less fortunate.
* The money and greed of the developers: The money representing the development schemes directly symbolizes the corrupting influence of greed and profit at the expense of environmental sustainability. It highlights the conflict between human avarice and the natural world.
* The characters' names: While not always overt, some character names might hint at their roles. The use of ironic or suggestive names could subtly reinforce the symbolic meaning. Analyzing the names in relation to their actions can reveal hidden layers of symbolism.
It's important to note that the symbolism in *Flush* is often layered and interwoven. The polluted Everglades don't merely represent pollution; they symbolize the wider corruption and lack of environmental stewardship. The interconnectedness of the symbols helps create a more complex and thought-provoking narrative.