Symbols in Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson EQ

Symbols in Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson EQ: Why do authors use literary devices (symbols) in their writings? How do author’s develop complex characters and plots?

WHAT IS A SYMBOL? n n When a certain object, picture or idea is used in literature to really represent something else, it is a symbol. If you are reading and a certain idea or object keeps reappearing, being described in interesting and complicated ways, there is a good chance it is meant to be looked at on a deeper level…perhaps a symbol of something else!

What is a tree, really? n n n A tree is a plant that occurs in many different forms. Trees show a variety of formations—including different leaf type and shape, bark characteristics, and reproductive organs. Compared with most other plants, trees are long-lived, some reaching several thousand years old and growing to up to 379 ft high.

The Roots of a Tree: n n n The roots of a tree are embedded in earth, providing an anchor and a way to absorb water and nutrients from the soil. While ground nutrients are essential to a tree's growth, the majority of its growth comes from carbon dioxide absorbed from the atmosphere. The roots systems of trees are intricate and complicated…

What happens when “roots” become damaged? n n Damaging roots on a tree may cause branches to die. You cannot have healthy branches if the roots are damaged. Eventually the “disease” will spread throughout the tree, taking over.

The branch system of a tree… n n n A tree branch is a woody structural piece connected to but not part of the central trunk of a tree. Large branches are known as boughs and small branches are known as twigs. A bough can also be called a limb or arm.

Pruning 101… n n Pruning is when branches are cut back. If you do not prune branches, the tree will become overgrown. If you prune too much, the tree will bear less fruit and leaves, and will not appear “beautiful”. Removal of deadwood or diseased limbs will usually result in an ugly plant.

What happens when tree branches are pruned? n n n Pruning can be harmful to a newly planted tree’s health. Pruning branches on trees not yet planted does not help a tree grow better or establish a balance between the roots and the branches. A newly planted tree needs all the leaves it has to help support the growth of new roots. Pruning trees before they are ready hurts the tree’s ability to become established.

Why a tree as a symbol? n Because of their shape – a central trunk with branches like arms and fingers, bark like skin – trees lend themselves to identification with the human form.

Why a tree as a symbol? n We can compare trees and humans easily in how they look. However, we can also compare the way trees grow and die to the human life as well.

Why a tree as a symbol? n You will notice that Laurie Halse Anderson continually brings up trees in Speak, so it becomes our job as the reader to look deeper into why she makes such a big deal about trees. What is she really trying to get us to see?

What other things in nature could we compare human beings to?