Signs of Something More Symbols Signs of Something More

What do these shapes mean? © 2003 clipart.com

What Is a Symbol? A symbol is a person, place, thing, or event that stands both for itself and for something beyond itself. © Bob Rowan; Progressive Image/CORBIS The use of symbols in literature is called symbolism.

Why Do Writers Use Symbols? Writers may use symbols to suggest layers of meaning to their work emphasize the story’s theme allow readers to form their own interpretations speak forcefully to readers’ emotions and imaginations

Identifying Symbols To identify symbols, keep in mind that symbols are often visual. Look for things that seem out of place. © Mark Peterson/Corbis Saba

Identifying Symbols To identify symbols, keep in mind that symbols are often given great emphasis in a story. Look for events, objects, or settings to which the writer has given a great deal of emphasis. Look for objects, people, or words that reappear throughout the story.

Identifying Symbols To identify symbols, keep in mind that symbols are a form of figurative language. A symbol is something that is identified with something else that is very different. Ask yourself: Does this item also stand for something that is essentially different from itself?

Identifying Symbols To identify symbols, keep in mind that symbols usually have something to do with a story’s theme. Ask yourself: How does this item relate to the story’s overall message?

A Word to the Wise Don’t look for symbols in everything you read. Not all writers use symbolism. Not all symbols are universal. CORBIS Images/HRW Is the wolf: A symbol of nature and beauty? A symbol of death and danger? Just a wolf?

What Have You Learned? Are the following statements true or false? ______— Symbols are not always universal. ______— A symbol represents more than itself. ______— All writers use symbols. ______— Symbols sometimes connect to a story’s theme. True True False True

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