Symbols
A Painted House- A painted house is a significant symbol within the book which is clearly expressed through the title. In this novel a painted house represents wealth; this is because the wealthier an individual is, the more they can afford to decorate their house. The Chandler’s are degraded when Hank points out to Luke that his house isn't painted. As a result Trot paints it to save Luke from further humiliation.
A switch-blade- The switch-blade is significant as the character Cowboy constantly carries it with him.Whenever someone starts a fight with him, he immediately pulls it out. This represents violence and illustrates that Cowboy is an violent and dangerous character.