How does the author use symbolism in the novel, The Widower’s Tale?

The pond on Percy's property symbolizes change in Percy's life, and how he has learned to accept and lean into it instead of fight it. The pond is the site where his wife, Poppy, accidentally drowned. This event would probably make most people avoid it, however, Percy swims in the pond every day in warm weather because it relaxes him. Perhaps he feels closer to Poppy when he is swimming there.