There's a pretty interesting passage in the lore book in regards to Garlean symbolism, namely in regards to the Garlean flag:

'The emblem upon the Garlean flag is a chain in abstract design. It symbolises the value the native sons and daughters of Garlemald hold dear: tight unity amongst their small number. In like fashion, the crimson of the central link represents all those who have perished in the name of the Garlean people.'

It can be found word for word on page 176.