I'm not sure which specific 'Simonen' novel you're referring to. Different novels can use a mallard in various ways. It could be a symbol of freedom, nature, or it might play a role in the plot, like being a key part of a character's memory or experience.
Well, in literature, an animal like a mallard can add depth to the narrative. It might be used to create a mood. For example, if the mallard is described in a serene setting, it can evoke a sense of peace. In Simonen's novel, it could also be related to a character's journey. Perhaps the character has an encounter with the mallard that changes their perspective. It could also be part of the local fauna in the fictional world of the novel, helping to build the overall atmosphere.
In many novels, animals often represent certain ideas or themes. If the mallard is in Simonen's novel, it could potentially be used to represent the wildness or unpredictability of nature. Maybe it's a messenger of some sort, or it could be used to contrast with the more civilized human characters in the story. Without knowing the exact novel, it's hard to say for sure.