Florence Adler Swims Forever

Content Warning: This section discusses antisemitism, loss of children, and Nazi Germany.

Florence’s swimming journal is a symbol of hope that eventually lends its name to Stuart, Anna, and Gussie’s secret society. Initially, the name of the journal is Florence Adler Swims the English Channel. It represents Florence’s dedication, determination, and organization to reach her goal of swimming the English Channel. Over time, the ink runs from use and moisture, and all that is legible is Florence Adler Swims. The journal is introduced in this form when Joseph holds it after Florence’s death, looking for the contact information for Florence’s coach.

The shift in the title signals the shifting function of the journal within the narrative. Initially a journal for Florence, it becomes a journal that reveals and builds relationships. For example, Joseph and Anna bond over the journal as Joseph reveals that Anna reminds him of her mother. It also facilitates Joseph’s connection to Stuart, who Anna tells Joseph will probably know the information the journal lacks.

In its final iteration, Florence’s journal lives on in the name of the secret society that Stuart and Anna induct