Tandem. The symbolic representation of Mr. Nilson's emotions and actions, such as the absence of a heart in the description about "a feeling of emptiness just under his fifth rib" and his strictly black appearance, expresses his representation of a lifestyle desolate, which is the absence of the vibrant emotions of life. The vibrant uses of imagery involving the description of the Japanese quince are able to describe the tree's forms as embodying life in the form of details such as "young flowers, pink and white, and small bright green leaves..." the demonstrate to further support the quince and the rebirth potential is also described in the shape of the leaves as "alive and dead" in its color and shape. The environment along with the blackbird is able to symbolize potential through the blackbird and their similarity. Rebirth is not only a part of Mr. Nilson's life, but also Mr. Tandem's. Mr., Tandem's appearance is similar to Mr. Nilson's in that they both wear black and are all described as having nice brown mustaches. However, the effect of the symbolism on the Japanese quince shows up towards the end of the story when they part ways. Their likenesses are both desolate and lifeless as Mr. Tandram looked at the tree through his window while Mr. Nilson was more withdrawn looking