Symbols, Symbolism, And Symbolism Essay - 960 Words

The dictionary definition of Symbolism is a figure of speech that is used when an author wants to create a certain mood or emotion in a work of literature. It is the use of an object, person, situation or word to represent something else, like an idea, in literature. There are common types of symbolism in literature. Some are Metaphors, Allegory, Colors, and objects. Metaphors are a figure of speech which makes an implicit, implied or hidden comparison between two things that are unrelated but share some common characteristics. In other words, a resemblance of two contradictory or different objects is made based on a single or some common characteristic. This is commonly used in Poetry and short stories. Author Josh Rahn wrote in an article on symbolism in which he said, â€Å"Without symbolism, something essential is missing from language and art. Symbols allow authors to impart ideas above and beyond the literal level of the text. A symbol represents, or stands in place of, something else. Even letters and words themselves are symbols, because our brain turns those markings into thoughts and ideas. Symbols are everywhere in our lives. Traffic signs, advertising logos and religious iconography all provide visual information that transcends the physical world. Think of the Apple logo--It s really very simple, silhouette of an apple with a single leaf at the stem and a small bite taken out of the top. Show that logo to nearly anyone in the world, and they will immediatelyShow MoreRelated Symbols and Symbolism in The Great Gatsby - Symbolism and the Truth3878 Words   |  16 PagesSymbols and Symbolism in The Great Gatsby - Symbolism and the Truth That Lies Between      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Symbolism is a very important device in Fitzgeralds 1926 masterpiece, The Great Gatsby. Different objects, words or actions symbolize different character traits for each person depicted in his novel. 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Scott Fitzgerald turns on the heat in Gatsby, he amplifies a single detail into an element of function and emphasis that transforms neutral landscapes into oppressive prisms† (DysonRead More Symbols and Symbolism in Death in Venice Essay854 Words   |  4 PagesSubtle Symbolism in Death in Venice    The dominant theme in Death in Venice is, obviously, death. This theme is exploited through the use of irony, imagery, and symbolism. The theme is most effectively explored by means of symbolism. Manns symbolism is not as straight-forward as most authors, however, and the reader is forced to dig deep in order to determine the true meaning of any given passage. This pseudo-hidden symbolism forces the reader to be acutely aware of its presence from pageRead MoreKey Symbolism Of Spiderman Symbols1451 Words   |  6 Pagesof this religion: their key symbols based on Ornter’s principles and how they make their architecture powerful and legitimize elite authority using Moore’s criteria. The Key Symbol of the Congregation of Spider-Sense One of the most important key symbols for Webheads is the iconic Spiderman symbol. The symbol is commonly called the Grand Spider by Webheads, though it is just referred to as the â€Å"Spiderman Symbol† to those not affiliated with the Congregation. This symbol is a colossal part of theirRead More Symbols and Symbolism in The Great Gatsby Essay1207 Words   |  5 PagesSymbolism in The Great Gatsby       Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby has more relevance in today’s society than it did when it was written. With the recent societal trend that emphasizes lack of morals and material wealth over a meaningful existence, Fitzgerald’s message really hits home. Which is more important - money or love? Social status or being true to oneself? Fitzgerald uses metaphor and symbols to great effect in order to illustrate what can happen when the pursuit of happiness