The Glass Castle: Symbolism

Blog #4: Symbolism
The repetition of Rex’s nickname for Jeannette, “mountain goat,” symbolizes his endless love for Jeannette. This symbol functions as verbal clarification of the close relationship that is shared between them as he constantly states that she is his “favorite.” The constant repetition of this nickname creates a sympathetic response to Rex’s condition, because obviously it is evident that he loves his daughter very much but he unconsciously disappoints her numerous times. But perhaps he constantly repeats this to make him feel better about himself and his life . Through his battle with his addiction to alcohol, he could always count on Jeannette to believe in his rehabilitation.
However, as Jeannette matured, she began to see through his false promises to cease drinking. And, more often than not, Rex would appear, as if out of nowhere, to ask for money to buy more alcohol. But when Jeannette refused, Rex called her “mountain goat” as if to spark a memory of the memorable times and love they shared while she was young and too naïve to see through his trickery. He said “mountain goat” also to perhaps make him remember to the days when he wasn’t a failure as a father and a drunk.
However, regardless of the amount of times Rex repeats this nickname, it still does not change the fact that he let Jeannette down and he broke his promises. The nickname for Jeannette does represent the love Rex has for Jeannette but the bond that comes from their deep love is constantly broken.