Owen Meany himself:
* The "little person": Owen's small stature and physical weakness symbolize his vulnerability and his profound understanding of human fragility. He is also seen as a prophetic figure, reminding John of the fragility of life and the inevitability of death.
* The "messenger": Owen's unwavering belief in God and his belief that he is chosen for a divine purpose makes him a messenger of God's will. His actions, often defying logic and reason, are seen as divine interventions.
* The "catalyst": Owen's presence in John's life acts as a catalyst for his own spiritual growth and self-discovery. Owen's unconventional beliefs and actions challenge John's worldview and force him to confront difficult questions about faith and destiny.
Objects and places:
* The baseball: The baseball that accidentally killed Owen's mother becomes a symbol of fate and the unpredictable nature of life. It also represents Owen's ability to influence events and his connection to the world beyond his own understanding.
* The Vietnam War: The war acts as a backdrop for the novel and symbolizes the chaos and violence that John and Owen experience in their youth. It also represents the larger forces that shape their destinies.
* The "little church": The church in Owen's hometown is a place of spiritual refuge for both John and Owen. It symbolizes their shared belief in God and their search for meaning in the world.
* The "toy train": The toy train that Owen gives to John becomes a symbol of innocence and the loss of childhood. It also represents Owen's belief in the power of miracles and his ability to see the world differently.
Themes:
* Faith: The novel explores the nature of faith and the power of belief. Owen's unwavering faith challenges John's own beliefs and forces him to confront the complexities of religion.
* Destiny: The novel examines the role of fate in shaping our lives. John's journey is marked by a sense of predestination, as he feels drawn to Owen and the events that unfold around them.
* The power of individual will: Despite the powerful forces that shape their lives, John and Owen ultimately choose to act upon their beliefs and fight for what they believe in.
These are just some of the symbols that appear in "A Prayer for Owen Meany." The novel is rich with layers of meaning and invites readers to interpret its symbols and themes in their own ways.