Symbols
Morton Rhue’s novel The Wave focuses extensively on the symbolism of the movement set up by the main character. To define The Wave as a movement, Ben Ross comes up with some symbols.
The Wave sign
First, Ben introduces a wave sign. The image of a wave not only gives its name to the movement Ross has created, but also to the novel. The history teacher chose this image because, in his opinion, a wave combines impact, motion, and direction (Chapter 6, 29%). Individuals are carried away by The Wave, toward a certain destination that defines the group. If The Wave comes towards someone, they cannot resist it. The Wave is simply too powerful.
The salute
The wave symbol also gives rise to the idea for a special salute: the right hand is curved in the shape of a wave ...