Essay Example on Symbolism in Literature: Technology's Role in Culture & Identity

Symbolism in Literature

In literature, a symbol is one of the crucial aspects of communication. According to Abcarian, Klotz, and Cohen, a symbol is a mark or character that is used as a conservative representation of a thing, role, process, and much more (14). For instance, a letter may be used to represent a particular chemical compound in a book. As such, most writers use symbols to clearly bring different themes or messages in the text.

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Technology as a Symbol of Cultural Change

According to the article, Culture, and Identity, technology is one symbol that is highly used. In particular, technology is used to symbolize the change process cultural values have undergone. In the early period, the connection between different groups was poor. As such, each society was identified based on its culture and practices (Abcarian, Klotz, and Cohen, 428). However, through the introduction of technology, people have managed to move from one region to another, which has made the world seem smaller. Therefore, technology has assisted in the elimination of geographical isolation of different cultures. In some cases, technology systems such as communication and transport have been associated with cultural conflicts as each group tries to overwhelm the others (Abcarian, Klotz, and Cohen, 430). Due to geographical isolation, each community had developed distinctive traits, which assisted in maintaining its value. Nevertheless, technology has highly altered the trait as it tries to make the world as a single unit.

The Symbolism of "Dead Paper" in The Yellow Wallpaper

The narrator in the article, The Yellow Wallpaper, demonstrates her disappointment with physicians. In regards, the narrator refers to their approach toward the health condition as dead paper. As such, the dead paper is used to symbolize something that was written but never published. In particular, the author uses the symbol to illustrate how the physicians are looking at the women's dairy to determine her health condition (Abcarian, Klotz, and Cohen, 442). As a way of enhancing understanding, the narrator tries to engage the reader's personality, which assists in understanding the issue she is facing. Through this aspect, the reader is given the opportunity to brainstorm the prevailing conditions and determine what to do. As such, the author uses the dead paper to bring the connection between the woman and the reader.

The Yard as a Symbol of Private Space in Everyday Use

In the article, Everyday Use, the yard is used to illustrate a private space, free from external disturbance. The author uses the yard to illustrate the connection that exists between actions that take place in the event. Cleaning the yard gives the character an opportunity to prepare for Dee's arrival (Abcarian, Klotz, and Cohen, 480). Therefore, they are sensitive about the appearance of the yard, and hence, they are trying to wave its design. Additionally, the yard is illustrated as a comfort place, which is being compared with the extended living rooms. Staying in the place gives people the freedom to enjoy free movement of air. In comparison to the interior house, there is no comfort since air is highly restricted, and this creates discomfort for living. Due to its comfort, Dee uses the yard to reconnect with her past.

Based on the three readings, symbols are essential aspects the authors use to color the meaning of the text. In current society, technology has become a crucial aspect that assists people in solving complex issues. On the other hand, the dead paper is used to illustrate unfulfilled promises that exist in society. The yard is a crucial area that people use to reconnect to the current and past cultural values.

Work Cited

Abcarian, Richard, Klotz Marvin, and Cohen Samuel. Editors. Literature: The Human Experience, Reading, and Writing. Shorter 12th Edition. Boston: Bedford / St. Martin's, 2018. Print.