The Humans

Clothing is a literal and metaphorical symbol in the novel. Andrew’s first lesson on human life is that, though humans seem to be obsessed with sex, they are easily shamed by their natural human bodies. Because Andrew runs around without clothes, he is arrested and institutionalized. The explicit message is that clothing is a sign of stability, acceptance of social norms, and healthy behavior. In other words, human beings crave coverage. They want to be physically hidden and emotionally hidden. Though clothing is literal, it is also symbolic because it represents the desperation people feel to keep their true selves to themselves. Because the novel develops into an uncovering of emotions, identity, and love, the emphasis on remaining clothed in the beginning of the novel helps to reinforce Haig’s criticism of society’s understanding of mental health. The more clothed and hidden a person is, the more stable they seem to others. However, this view is a farce—a coping mechanism that humans use to remain anonymous in the face of potential shame.

Music is a crucial symbol of the power of the human spirit. Haig postulates that music uplifts the soul and makes humans feel in awe of their existence.