Chapter 8 of Thomas C. Foster's How to Read Literature Like a Professor, titled "Is That a Symbol?", delves into the often-misunderstood and frequently overanalyzed realm of symbolism in literature. Foster elucidates how to identify and interpret symbols effectively, distinguishing them from mere objects or events within a narrative.
Understanding Symbolism: Beyond the Obvious
The core concept of this chapter revolves around recognizing that everything in a literary work can potentially function symbolically, yet not everything does. A symbol, in its essence, represents something else, often an abstract idea, a deeper meaning, or a complex concept. The key to identifying a symbol lies in understanding its contextual relevance within the specific work and recognizing recurring patterns or emphasis surrounding it.
A crucial distinction Foster makes is between symbols and allegory. While both involve representation, allegory operates on a one-to-one correspondence. For example, in John Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress, the characters and locations directly represent specific virtues and vices. A symbol, conversely, is more fluid and open to interpretation, possessing multiple layers of meaning and association.
Here is a structured approach to deciphering symbolism in literature:
Pay Attention to Repetition and Emphasis: Symbols often appear repeatedly throughout a text, or they are given particular emphasis by the author. Ask yourself: What objects, images, or ideas recur in the narrative? Are they highlighted through description, dialogue, or plot events?
Consider the Context: A potential symbol's meaning is significantly influenced by its context within the story. An object that symbolizes freedom in one narrative might represent confinement in another. Analyze the surrounding events, characters' reactions, and the overall theme of the work.
Look for Cultural and Historical Associations: Symbols often draw upon pre-existing cultural, historical, or religious associations. For instance, a dove is commonly associated with peace, a snake with temptation, and the color red with passion or danger. Being aware of these conventional meanings can provide a starting point for interpretation. However, remember that authors can subvert or modify these traditional associations.
Engage with Multiple Interpretations: Symbolism is rarely straightforward. A single symbol can have multiple valid interpretations, depending on the reader's perspective and the nuances of the text. Avoid seeking a single "correct" answer and embrace the ambiguity inherent in symbolic representation.
Consider the Author's Intent (with Caution): While understanding the author's background, influences, and stated intentions can be helpful, avoid relying solely on authorial intent to interpret symbols. Literary interpretation is a collaborative process between the author, the text, and the reader. Focus primarily on the evidence within the text itself.
Recognize the Difference Between Symbol and Metaphor: A metaphor equates two unlike things directly, while a symbol uses an object or image to represent a concept indirectly. For example, "He is a lion" is a metaphor, directly comparing someone to a lion, while a lion appearing repeatedly in a story to represent courage is a symbol.
Examples of Symbolism in Literature
Let's examine a few examples to illustrate these principles:
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Example 1: The Green Light in The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. The green light across the bay from Gatsby's mansion is a potent symbol. It represents Gatsby's dream of reuniting with Daisy, his yearning for the past, and the ultimately unattainable nature of his desires. The light's distance and its eventual disappearance as Gatsby gets closer to Daisy highlight the illusion and futility of his pursuit.
Example 2: The Mockingbird in To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. Mockingbirds, who only sing beautiful songs and do no harm, symbolize innocence in Lee's novel. The act of killing a mockingbird represents the destruction of innocence, particularly that of Tom Robinson and Boo Radley, both of whom are unjustly victimized by society.
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Example 3: Water in Literature. Water can have various symbolic meanings. It can represent life, purification, rebirth, or the unconscious. In some stories, a character's immersion in water might symbolize a cleansing or a transformative experience. Conversely, water can also represent chaos, destruction, or the overwhelming forces of nature, as seen in stories about floods or shipwrecks.
Pitfalls to Avoid
Overanalyzing and forcing symbolic interpretations where none exist is a common mistake. Not every object or event is a symbol. Sometimes, a cigar is just a cigar, as Sigmund Freud famously (and perhaps apocryphally) said.
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Another pitfall is relying solely on personal interpretations without considering the context of the text or broader cultural associations. While personal responses are valid, they should be supported by evidence from the work itself.
Practical Applications and Insights
Understanding symbolism enriches not only our reading experience but also our understanding of the world around us. We encounter symbols daily, from traffic lights to national flags. Recognizing the layers of meaning embedded in these symbols enhances our awareness of the messages they convey and the values they represent.
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Furthermore, learning to interpret symbols can improve our critical thinking skills. It encourages us to look beyond the surface, to question assumptions, and to consider multiple perspectives. This ability is valuable in various fields, from communication and marketing to politics and social commentary.
Finally, engaging with symbolism can foster empathy and cross-cultural understanding. By exploring the symbolic representations of different cultures, we gain insight into their values, beliefs, and worldviews. This understanding can bridge cultural divides and promote meaningful dialogue.
In conclusion, deciphering symbolism in literature is a skill that enhances our appreciation of art and our understanding of the human experience. By paying attention to repetition, considering context, and exploring multiple interpretations, we can unlock the deeper layers of meaning embedded in literary works and apply these insights to our everyday lives.
