Water imagery, a favorite of Bradbury’s, again is the major symbol in this story. First, the mermaid, the gift that the sea gives to Tom, is described: Her eyelids are a faint water color, her mouth is a pale sea rose, and her body seems alive only when the sea waves wash over her. It is the sea which gives the mermaid life. Likewise, the sea gives new life to Tom’s depressed spirits. It not only becomes the promise of joy for him, but it also provides regeneration for him. Bradbury seems to be saying that we need a deep purpose for living before we can discover lasting joy.