Final answer:
In 'There There,' Octavio's shooting of the mourning dove likely symbolizes his growing reliance on violence as a way to cope with his circumstances and express his anguish.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the book There There, Octavio's act of shooting the mourning dove may symbolize his growing reliance on violence. This action can be interpreted as him expressing his anguish and a desire for control, in a context where he himself feels powerless. The shooting of the bird does not directly restore any sense of hope or agency, but rather it signifies a turn towards a more destructive way of coping with his feelings and circumstances. The mourning dove, often associated with peace and innocence, exacerbates this symbolism as its death demonstrates a disregard for those very qualities, reflecting Octavio's internal turmoil and his potential path towards further violence.