The Red Convertible

559 Words3 Pages
Symbolism in “The Red Convertible” In “The Red Convertible,” Louise Erdrich uses numerous objects as symbols, but none more important than the convertible car to symbolize the status of Henry and Lyman’s relationship. In the beginning, she clearly illustrates the positive nature of the brother’s relationship. After war, Lyman is convinced Henry has changed concluding, “The change was no good” (Erdrich 396). In the beginning, the car is in excellent shape and so is their relationship. The brothers use all their money to purchase the car symbolizing their trust in one another and their strong relationship. Lyman states, “The car belongs to us, and our pockets are empty” (Edrich 394). The fact that the brothers purchased a convertible car represents their free spirit and attitude during their road trip and how they have a good and comfortable relationship. The brothers have no worries and even take on a hitch hiker. At this time, Henry is outgoing, talkative, and even jokes around with the girl they picked up on the road. “I always wondered what it was like to have long pretty hair”, Henry says (Erdrich 395). It’s clear Henry is in a good state of mind and the brothers are happy. On the road trip, the car is strong and runs great and the brother’s relationship gets stronger. When Henry leaves for the war the car is no longer used symbolizing that the brothers don’t have a relationship at this time. The brothers only communicate through a few letters and the car is not being run. Their relationship and the car are both being neglected. Lyman restores the car to mint condition right before Henry returns. Lyman is preparing the car to be used again just as he is preparing to have a relationship with his brother again. When Henry returns from the war the car is damaged and then it is lost forever symbolizing their damaged relationship. Lyman purposely

More about The Red Convertible

Open Document