The Spear Cuts Through Water

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of death.

The spear is a vital symbol of the novel, appearing in the first scenes as the grandchild enters the Inverted Theater. The spear is as tall as the grandchild, with a blade that glints in the light and a long red tassel. Markings carved into the haft describe the movements of the dance performed by Keema and Jun for the Water, which provides the novel’s title. Belonging first to Commander Araya, then passed to Keema and Shan, and finally ending in the grandchild’s possession, the spear is both a literal and symbolic connection between the generations. It stretches across time, drawing the line between Araya and her descendants, including the grandchild and all the dream shades in the Inverted Theater. It exists outside of time, capable of moving from the future into the past when the grandchild gives it to Keema to complete his mission. As the grandchild reflects in the final chapter, the spear functions like a needle that stitches past to present, contributing significantly to the theme of Storytelling as a Means of Identity Formation.

However, the spear can symbolize other things as well. For instance, it also represents Araya’s love and devotion to her husband, the metalsmith killed in Joyrock.