Symbolism, Imagery, Allegory
Truth and Lies
Lies, like Peter Schiff, is a dual symbol—both within Anne's mind and within the reader's.
Quick background: Lies was Anne's bestie. They shared the kind of awesome bond that only happens in middle school. If you've even seen the 80's classic Stand By Me, you'll remember the oh-so-true last lines of the movie: "I never had any friends later on like the ones I had when I was twelve. Jesus, does anyone?"
As Anne dreams about her school friend Lies and imagines that terrible things have happened to her, Lies becomes a symbol of guilt and gratefulness. Anne feels somehow that she should have managed to save Lies. The fact that something terrible has probably happened to people she loves reminds Anne how grateful she should be to the people who have protected her family:
We’re so fortunate here, away from the turmoil. We wouldn’t have to give a moment’s thought to all this suffering if it weren’t for the fact that we’re so worried about those we hold dear, whom we can no longer help. I feel wicked sleeping in a warm bed, while somewhere out there my dearest friends are dropping from exhaustion or being knocked to the ground. (11/19/1942.5)
For the reader, the character of Lies has another symbolic layer—she's one more symbol of the rich, love-filled life that Anne could have lived if it weren't for Nazi persecution.