The Red Convertible

498 Words2 Pages
SYMBOLISM IN “RED CONVERTIBLE” The symbolism can be defined as the use of symbols to signify ideas and qualities by giving them symbolic meanings that are different from their literal sense. Many authors use this literature device in their stories to reveal the theme or to give and emphasize the message. The symbolism captures significant elements and confers complexity and depths to the story. By using this figure of speech, the writer communicates and shares his ideas without thorough explanations; leaving the final interpretation to the reader. In the short story “The Red Convertible” write by Louise Erdrich, the symbolism is used to illustrate the changing bond between two brothers Henry and Lyman. The symbols here can be anything from a living to a non-living object, and reflect certain or multiples aspects of the story. Through the use of Red convertible, Picture and the color Red, the author reveals in this exciting and memorable story, the three symbols that bind together the memories of the brothers. The red convertible itself is by far the most significant of the symbol. Throughout the story, the car is a constant metaphor for the two brother’s relationship; it is assimilate to joy as well as affliction and pain due to unbearable distress henry feels. At first, the red convertible is symbol of success and represent connection with the western society. The narrator states “ I was the first to drive a convertible on my reservation”. (Erdrich )This passage shows how Lyman is proud of his new acquisition. The car represents comfort and freedom for the brothers, because when they drive with the roof down, they can feel the wind on their skin and especially the empty space above their head. During this time, their relation is very close, the car requires no work and carries them all around the country. Later in the story, the car represents suffering and
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