Themes and Symbolisms

Themes:

Loneliness:  Many characters in this play display loneliness.  The first example is Maxine.  She has always been lonely even when her husband was alive, but after he died she became lonelier.  When Shannon first arrives at her hotel, she wants to fill the emptiness she has with him.  She offers to shave his hair, bring him new shoes, and wear Fred's old clothes.  Although she doesn't want to replace Fred, she wants someone to be there around with her.  Shannon is probably the loneliest character in the play.  He lost respect from the church, does not have a wife or girlfriend, does not seem to be close with his family, and has no close friends to count on.  He chose the job at Blake Tours because he has nothing else to do and is wandering around Mexico until he can figure it out.  He had sex with Charlotte just because he needed contact.  He has no one to fill his need for attention, and his actions prove that he is lonely.  

Symbolism:

Iguana:  The iguana plays an important role in the play.  At the beginning of the play, Pedro and Pancho captured an iguana and tied it close to the hotel.  In Mexico the iguana is considered a delicacy, but Hannah thought they should let it go.  Just like Maxine held Shannon captive in the hammock and at the hotel, she held the iguana captive.  However, the only way for the iguana and Shannon to survive is to let them go.