Martin Luther King Jr. once said: “Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that." This quote has different meanings for all three main characters in the novel The Pigman written by Paul Zindel. John, Lorraine, and Mr. Pignati all have their own symbolic cages that keep them trapped inside and make them scream inside wanting to be free. Contrary to what some might think, not only young people like John and Lorraine can be locked up in symbolic cages, but also adults like Mr. Pignati. There are two types of cages in this novel, the actual cages for Bobo and other animals, and there are symbolic cages that apply to John, Lorraine, and Mr. Pignati that make them trapped and affect everyone around them. John is trapped inside his symbolic cage and is held primarily by his father Bore. John aspired to be a famous actor when he grew up, but was always discouraged by his father. This could lead to John having self-confidence issues when he is older and damage his future ...