Dialectical Journal – Symbolism
Directions: After reading “Through the Tunnel” by Doris Lessing, identify four symbolic objects
present in the text and that have some significant meaning to the reader’s understanding of the text.
Then, complete the journal for each object. On the back of this page, answer questions 4-6 on page
485 in complete sentences.
Also, can you identify any significant archetypes?? List and analyze those as well on the back of this
page. 
Example
Effect, Purpose, and /or
insight
Symbolic Object or Event
(including context)
Abstract Level of Symbolic
Meaning
The ibis is literally a tropical bird
that has been blown off course in
a storm. The bird dies in the
narrator’s yard.
Symbolically, the ibis represents
Doodle. The ibis, like Doodle, is
out of place, fragile, and unique.
The bird, like Doodle, is
uncoordinated and struggles
mightily.
The death of the bird symbolizes
and foreshadows the death of
Doodle. Using the ibis as a
symbol allows the reader to see
the beauty of Doodle’s
uniqueness and frailty and
illustrates his struggle in the end.
Symbolic Object or Event
(including context)
Abstract Level of Symbolic
Meaning
Effect, Purpose, and /or
insight
Symbolic Object or Event
(including context)
Abstract Level of Symbolic
Meaning
Effect, Purpose, and /or
insight
Symbolic Object or Event
(including context)
Abstract Level of Symbolic
Meaning
Effect, Purpose, and /or
insight
Symbolic Object or Event
(including context)
Abstract Level of Symbolic
Meaning
Effect, Purpose, and /or
insight