Symbols Signs of Something More 2003 clipart com

Symbols Signs of Something More

© 2003 clipart. com What do these shapes mean?

What Is a Symbol? © Bob Rowan; Progressive Image/CORBIS A symbol is a person, place, thing, or event that stands both for itself and for something beyond itself. • 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. © Mark Peterson/Corbis Saba • Look for things that seem out of place.

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. Is the wolf: • A symbol of nature and beauty? • A symbol of death and danger? CORBIS Images/HRW • Just a wolf?

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

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