Breathing Underwater

by Alex Flinn

Start Free Trial

Student Question

What are some symbols in Breathing Underwater by Alex Flinn?

Quick answer:

In Alex Flinn's novel, Nick's journal serves as a significant symbol. It represents his journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Mandated by a judge, Nick must write about his relationship with Caitlyn, which forces him to confront his abusive behavior and the underlying causes of his anger, including the abuse he suffered from his father. Through this process, Nick gains insight into his actions and begins his path toward change.

Expert Answers

An illustration of the letter 'A' in a speech bubbles

The book isn't exactly overwhelmed with symbolism, but one possible symbol you might like to consider is Nick's journal. Nick's forced to write the journal by the judge as part of the conditions of the restraining order taken out against him by Caitlyn. The judge tells Nick that he must write 500 words in the journal each week, detailing everything that's happened between himself and Caitlyn, from the moment they first met to the day of the court hearing. It's hoped that Nick will find the experience educational. He certainly has a lot to learn given his arrogant, disrespectful demeanor in court.

The journal could be said to symbolize the personal voyage of self-discovery that Nick undergoes throughout the course of the book. In writing about his tumultuous relationship with Caitlyn, he's forced to come to terms with his abusive behavior towards her. Not only that, but he's forced to confront the source of all the pent-up rage inside him, the years of physical abuse to which he himself has been subjected by his father.

Get Ahead with eNotes

Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.

Get 48 Hours Free Access
Approved by eNotes Editorial