Chrysanthemums

The chrysanthemums play a very significant role throughout the story. As Elisa's character changes, so do the flowers. They share a lot of similarities with Elisa. The strong bitter smell that the flowers emit, mimic Elisa's demeanor towards others. Although she doesn't seem to be unfriendly, when she speaks with the salesman she remains reserved and uninterested. Also like the flowers she is protected and sheltered at her ranch. Yet, when her guard is let down and she lets a stranger cross her gate and enter her personal space both she and the flowers suffer greatly. She has very little contact with those around her and protects herself underneath layers of clothing. As the story progresses the chrysanthemums parallel Elisa's experiences. When the peddler breaks down Elisa's tough shell, she sheds her unnecessary layers of clothing. As she gains trust in the peddler she gifts him her prized possession (the chrysanthemums) just like she had "given" him her excess clothing. The peddler manages to make a profit and deceive Elisa. When she realizes her mistake, it is too late and she cannot undo the damage. While she showers she tries to scrub the incident from her memory, but to no success. Later, she discovers the discarded chrysanthemums and feels used. They, much like her, are stripped of their protection (inside the pot) and are left to on their own like useless items at the side of the peddler's route.