Freedom is represented through symbols such as guns, rehabilitation, and the cassette tapes that Ishmael possesses throughout the war. Freedom is something that Ishmael Beah receives as a soldier in the war and that also makes his life easier. The first symbol of freedom is the Ak 47 that Ishamel Beah receives in the army and it is a symbol of freedom. Ishmael Beah says: “Every time I looked at the rebels during the raids, I got even more angry, because they looked like the rebels who were playing cards in the ruins of the village where I lost my family. So when the lieutenant gave orders, I took as much from them as I could, but I didn't feel any better. (122) The loss of his family is how he channels his pain into having hatred towards the rebels who killed them. Ishmael channels his anger through the fire of his weapon. The weapon is freedom where he can kill whoever he wants. He believes that if all the rebels are killed, he will have achieved freedom, peace and his soul will be healed. Freedom can also be defined as having a feeling of security in the world and that is exactly what a gun gives you. A gun gives you a feeling of security and confidence. If someone is chasing you and you draw your gun, they will immediately stop and back away. This gives you protection. Ishmael has the freedom to kill. Another symbol of freedom is when he is in rehabilitation. This gives him a chance to be at peace with his new self