Loss is defined as losing someone or something, such as losing a person in life. This idea is significant because both the characters in the novel are impacted by the loss of someone. In Out of the Dust, a historical fiction novel by Karen Hesse, the author uses symbolism to display the fact that Billie Jo and Daddy are greatly affected by Ma’s death. For instance, in the climax of the story Ma got burned by fire so badly she died after giving birth to a son who did not survive as well. This impacted the rest of her family in a myriad of ways. Thus, the author uses the two symbols, cranberry sauce and the hole, to show a loss in Billie Jo and her father’s lives. Primarily, the author's use of symbolism shows how cranberry sauce greatly affects