Content Warning: This section of the guide discusses mental illness, domestic violence, food insecurity, and child hunger.

Throughout Homecoming, the ocean is a dynamic backdrop to which the children consistently return. The sea represents freedom, hope, and escape while symbolizing an uncertain world's uncontrollable dangers. Dicey ties all representations together when she thinks, “Everybody who was born was cast onto the sea. Winds would blow them in all directions. Tides would rise and turn, in their own rhythm. And the boats—they just went along as best they could, trying to find a harbor” (244); she then admits to herself that she doesn’t really want to find a metaphorical harbor (home). Dicey grows into a bold risk-taker during the narrative. Disappointed by adults and authority figures meant to protect her, Dicey toys with the idea of traveling permanently, like a boat forever out to sea.

On numerous occasions, the ocean offers the Tillermans protection and rest. They find shelter and sustenance in the Rockland State Park public beach, where James and Sammy want to stay indefinitely. The children use a rowboat to cross a vast river, and a gentle current pushes the children in the right direction.