1. Manzanar: The Manzanar internment camp itself serves as a powerful symbol of injustice, racism, and the violation of civil liberties. It represents the oppressive system that incarcerated Japanese Americans during World War II and the hardships they endured.
2. Barbed Wire: The barbed wire fences surrounding Manzanar symbolize the restrictions and confinement imposed on the Japanese Americans. They represent the physical and psychological barriers that separated the internees from the outside world.
3. Dust Storms: The frequent dust storms that plague Manzanar symbolize the harsh and challenging environment the internees had to endure. They also evoke a sense of disorientation and uncertainty, reflecting the uprooted lives of the Japanese Americans.
4. Mountains: The mountains surrounding Manzanar represent both physical barriers and emotional boundaries. They symbolize the challenges and obstacles the internees faced, as well as the yearning for freedom and a return to their former lives.
5. The Canteen: The canteen at Manzanar serves as a symbol of community and resilience. It is a place where the internees could gather, socialize, and find a semblance of normalcy amidst their confinement.
6. Education: Education becomes a symbol of hope and empowerment for the internees. It represents their determination to rise above their circumstances and build a better future for themselves and their children.
7. The Journey Home: The journey back home after the internment camps closed symbolizes the long-awaited release from confinement and the challenges faced in rebuilding their lives. It represents the process of healing and reclaiming their identities.
These symbols add depth and complexity to "Farewell to Manzanar" and enhance the reader's understanding of the intricate themes and emotions explored in the narrative.