Definition
The practice of representing things by means of symbols or of attributing symbolic meanings or significance to objects, events, or relationships.
Why authors use symbolism?
A symbolic meaning is a way of adding additional meaning to a text by implication. Authors would use this to add levels of meaning in an efficient way.
For Example; A Shell
A shell literally is a fragile and delicate object. So symbolically over time, it has come to symbolise femininity.
A shell literally holds soft seafood within its hard outer casing. So symbolically over time, it has come to symbolise fertility.
A shell comes with two parts and the breaking open of a shell would symbolise a harsh and unnecessary action.
The conch shell has come to symbolise power and authority because it has traditionally been used as a speaking tool.
In ancient Greek myth, Aphrodite was born of the sea and has been depicted through famous art works as standing on a shell.
So, if an author is writing a dreamy romantic scene, he might want his hero to pick up a shell and gently gift it to the heroine. In taking this action, the hero is being romantic towards the heroine but on another level, he is showing his respect for her femininity and he is making a statement that he honours her by the gift, suggesting that he will not break open the shell (her) but treat it (her) gently.
For Example; A Shell
A shell literally is a fragile and delicate object. So symbolically over time, it has come to symbolise femininity.
A shell literally holds soft seafood within its hard outer casing. So symbolically over time, it has come to symbolise fertility.
A shell comes with two parts and the breaking open of a shell would symbolise a harsh and unnecessary action.
The conch shell has come to symbolise power and authority because it has traditionally been used as a speaking tool.
In ancient Greek myth, Aphrodite was born of the sea and has been depicted through famous art works as standing on a shell.
So, if an author is writing a dreamy romantic scene, he might want his hero to pick up a shell and gently gift it to the heroine. In taking this action, the hero is being romantic towards the heroine but on another level, he is showing his respect for her femininity and he is making a statement that he honours her by the gift, suggesting that he will not break open the shell (her) but treat it (her) gently.
How to write about symbolism?
When writing about an author's symbolism, you can refer to any aspect that you have identified. It's a good way to impress your reader or examiner if you are able to clearly express what you mean. You will need to state that you have identified a symbol and then explain both levels of meaning, both the explicit and the implied. You might write a paragraph such as;
The author has used a shell symbolically in this section of the text. Through the use of this symbol, the author wants the reader to understand that the hero is more than romantic with this gesture. The author wants the characters and the reader to understand that the hero's intention is genuine and that he seriously wants to get together with the heroine. Thus the reader is able to make inference about the hero's character and intention whilst the plot of the story is also moved on in time.
The author has used a shell symbolically in this section of the text. Through the use of this symbol, the author wants the reader to understand that the hero is more than romantic with this gesture. The author wants the characters and the reader to understand that the hero's intention is genuine and that he seriously wants to get together with the heroine. Thus the reader is able to make inference about the hero's character and intention whilst the plot of the story is also moved on in time.