The Red Convertible

Content Warning: This section contains references to war-related trauma.

The convertible represents freedom and independence: The boys can go wherever they like so long as they have gas money. It also represents a mutual future. Driving in the fixed-up car with Henry to the Red River recalls the summer road trip and the perfect happiness the brothers had together. It’s Lyman’s greatest wish to get that feeling back, and he believes in the car’s ability to make that happen.

The car also reminds the reader of young Lyman’s lack of independence—or rather, his dependence on his older brother for his sense of self and purpose. He refuses to do anything but fix the car up while Henry’s in Vietnam. He won’t accept the keys either time Henry tries to give him full ownership of the car: The first time he makes a joke, and the second time they come to blows over the issue. Lyman runs the car into the river at the end of the story, solidifying the loss of the carefree childhood he once had with Henry. However, making the choice to abandon the symbol of independence paradoxically frees Lyman from the need to define himself by this symbol, ushering in a new potential future and marking his