The Broom:
The broom is a symbol that represents Ruby Thewes, because she is sent to help Ada clean up her big mess that she has until Ada can get back on her feet. The broom's long wooden stick represents her tuffness that she had to have throughout her life, because she would sometimes be on her own when her dad would leave her for weeks at a time, because he would go and drink just to get drunk. Also, the thick bristles of the broom represents all of dirt and hardships that Ruby Thewes went through as a young lady just to become a better person as a whole.
The Oil Lamp
The oil lamp is a symbol that represents Inman and his adventurous journey to seeking the woman that he lust for which is Ada. The light source that is provided from this oil lamp which is fire, symbolizes the courage and passion that Inman has had throughout his life through the war that he was severly injured in and his post-war journey for the search of Ada. The oil from this lamp symbolizes the support that Inman has had throughout his quest seeking for Ada just so he can stay motivated to carry on with his journey.