Masters of Death

The immortals’ game is a motif that represents The Exploration of Life and Death. Although Fox hates the game because it represents Brandt’s betrayal and Death’s gambling compulsion, he realizes when he gets to the tables that the game represents more than that. Death’s explanation that the game is about facing a person’s demons proves to be true, as Fox must face every painful thing that has happened to him. However, the game also represents the search for the meaning of life. Death realizes that Fox can win the game due to his mortality because he is familiar with loss and because “the reward is always greater” (463). Within the confines of the game, Fox realizes that he has the power to change his destiny and the destiny of those he loves. Fox’s ability as a mortal to face his fears and emotions makes it possible to beat Volos and Death in the game because he does not shy away from the threat of loss.

Time’s watch is a symbol that represents immortality. When Brandt steals the watch from Time in the game, he gives it to Fox so that neither of them will age during their love affair.