Thinking about Symbolism
In literature, a symbol is something that represents something else. It has two meanings
associated with: the literal meaning, and the symbolic meaning. Or even more simply, the thing it
is versus the idea it represents.
Often times, a symbol has a universal meaning that can be applied to many stories. Authors will
include symbols (and motifs) to give their story a deeper meaning.
In point form notes:
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What are some symbols that the author has used in his/her story?
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Have any motifs emerged in this story?
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Type your answer(s) here…
What do the symbols (and motifs) reveal of the deeper meaning of the story?
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Type your answer(s) here…
Type your answer(s) here…
Do the symbols (and motifs) tend to be viewed positively or negatively?
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Type your answer(s) here…
Using your point form notes, pick two symbols from your story (one must be a tangible object,
and the other a non-tangible concept) and fill out the table on the next page. You are not required
to write a paragraph this week, but the written portion of the table is expected to be in complete
sentences with clear explanation and evidence.
Symbolism in type your book title here
TANGIBLE ITEM:
NON-TANGIBLE CONCEPT:
Spear
Memories
Insert a picture of your symbol here
Insert a picture of your symbol here
Explain the literal and symbolic meaning of
Explain the literal and symbolic meaning of your
your tangible object symbol here. What is its
non-tangible concept symbol here. What is its
significance to your story? The spear
significance to your story? Every time Fisher makes
represents protection, loyalty, and friendship.
something, learns something, or sees something
It’s a weapon that protects fisher from all the
that he hasn’t before, he gets flashback memories
things in that world.
of him making that thing, seeing that thing, or
learning that thing before. My prediction is that his
memories got erased and he is getting them back
day by day.
How does the author’s use of these symbols contribute to the story’s deeper meaning?
The spear really contributes to the story because that’s how Fisher found click, Fisher was
born in a pod, then he became hungry and made a spear, he went hunting and heard something
behind him, he turned around and spear the thing behind him. That thing was Click, which is
the robot that is helping Fisher to get to the ARK and to help him survive. That was the
beginning of there friendship. When he stubbed click, he didn’t know if he was dangerous or
friendly, Click pulled the spear out of his shoulder and told him that he is trying to help him.
Like I said before the author use this non tangible to show that he is getting his memories
back, and that he is going to remember what happened to humanity.