Appearance vs. Reality

The green hat itself symbolizes the contrast between outward glamour and inner turmoil; Iris Storm's polished, fashionable exterior hides deep shame, regret, and a fractured past, while characters like Gerald March project a defiant persona that masks vulnerability and fear.

The green hat serves as a facade for Iris's true self, highlighting the discrepancy between her public persona and private struggles.

Iris Storm presents a conventional exterior but defies easy categorization, embodying a disconnect between how she appears and who she truly is.

The narrator contrasts the glamorous car and hat with the squalor of the lane, hinting at hidden truths beneath surface allure.

Iris's eyes appear masked, hiding her true emotions. Gerald's outward drunkenness masks his inner death after losing his hero.