At first, way before Liesel met Hans Hubermann, the accordion held sentimental value for this man because it represents the man who saved his life. This heroic man was Erik Vandenburg. When Hubermann went to fight World War I in France, he met Vandenburg, who taught him how to play the accordion. On the day of a major battle, Vandenburg volunteered Hubermann to write letters for the captain. So Hubermann did not go to war, while everyone else, including Erik Vandenburg went to war. No one returned. Hans was able to keep the accordion after Erik's body and belongings were found. The accordion symbolized hope and prosperity.
When Liesel is introduced to Himmel Street, the accordion is a symbol of hope for her as well. Through the music, she is able to forget her worries about the death of her brother and the loss of her mother. It provides her a distraction from the horrid life around her, especially during air raids and bombings.
When Liesel is introduced to Himmel Street, the accordion is a symbol of hope for her as well. Through the music, she is able to forget her worries about the death of her brother and the loss of her mother. It provides her a distraction from the horrid life around her, especially during air raids and bombings.
"He would return with his accordion and play for her. Liesel would sit up and hum, her cold toes clenched with excitement. No one had ever given her music before. She would grin herself stupid, watching the lines drawing themselves down his face and the soft metal of his eyes" (37).
When Hans leaves to fight in World War II, Rosa becomes attached to the accordion because it made up a part of Hans. It becomes a consistent reminder of how important Hans was to her and how much she needed him in her life. Liesel sees the change in Rosa every night as she mopes over the accordion mourning for Hans and praying that he would stay alive.