The Crash

In The Crash, teddy bears symbolize the loving bond between parent and child. Polly keeps the teddy bear meant for her and Hank’s child in the back of the pantry, where it won’t be a constant reminder of her inability to be a mother. She can’t bring herself to get rid of it altogether because it represents the future possibility of a child, and she’s not ready to let go of hope. Hidden in the darkness of the pantry in the same way that Polly hides her trauma over not having a child, the status of the bear parallels Polly’s state of mind and hopelessness. Through this connection, the teddy bear’s symbolism explores The Psychological Influence of Maternal Instinct, and what happens when it is thwarted, through Polly’s character.

If teddy bears symbolize the parent-child bond, then Jackson’s choice to give one to Tegan’s baby represents the parental role that Tegan hopes he will play in the baby’s life. It also serves as Tegan’s reminder that Jackson has the qualities she wants in a partner and a father figure for Tia, despite her temporary suspicions about him. In the hospital, Jackson sets the bear on the dresser right next to Polly’s teddy bear, creating a

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