What is Symbolism in Literature? (Definition)

Symbolism in literature is the use of objects, characters, figures, and colors to represent abstract ideas or concepts. Symbols carry a literal meaning as part of the story (for example, a dove appearing in the sky), but they also carry a figurative meaning – for example, a dove may symbolize the idea of peace or freedom. Authors may use symbols to deepen meaning and add layers to their story, allowing the reader to make multiple interpretations of the work. Readers ultimately need to consider the context to uncover the symbolic meaning.

Examples of Symbolism

Example 1: The Green Light in The Great Gatsby 
Throughout F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel, the green light at the end of Daisy’s dock represents Gatsby’s hopes and dreams of uniting with Daisy in the future. Because Gatsby’s quest for Daisy is broadly associated with the American Dream, the green light also symbolizes that ideal, plus the futility of his pursuit. The green light thus becomes a poignant reminder of both aspiration and unattainability, making it one of the most famous symbols in American literature.

Example 2: Hair in Their Eyes Were Watching God 
Janie’s hair is a symbol of her strength and individuality in Zora Neale Hurston’s novel. By wearing her hair down—an action critiqued by the town—Janie signifies her independence and defiance of petty community standards. Additionally, because of its straightness, her hair functions as a symbol of whiteness, at least in the eyes of the other characters. Janie’s straight hair helps her disrupt traditional power relationships (male over female, white over Black) throughout the novel.

Example 3: The Scarlet Letter “A” in The Scarlet Letter 
Nathaniel Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter features one of the most well-known symbols in American literature: the embroidered letter “A” that Hester Prynne must wear as punishment for adultery. The scarlet letter is meant to be a symbol of shame, but instead it becomes a powerful symbol of identity as Hester gains strength. Hawthorne’s use of this symbol shows how symbols can evolve and gain meaning from elements like characterization.

Common Misunderstandings about Symbolism 

A common misunderstanding about symbolism is assuming that everything in a story must be symbolic. While literature often contains symbols, not every detail has a deeper meaning. Another misconception is that symbols always have one correct interpretation, when they’re actually flexible and dependent on context. A rainstorm, for example, could symbolize danger in one text but rebirth in another.  

Additionally, sometimes symbolism is confused with imagery. Imagery uses vivid descriptive language to appeal to the senses, while symbolism uses that imagery to point toward broader ideas. Finally, many readers believe that symbolism is only intentional on the author’s part, but often symbols emerge naturally through readers’ interpretations. Literature thrives on this multiplicity, making it less about finding a single “answer” and more about exploring layers of meaning. 

Why Does Symbolism Matter? 

Symbolism matters because it transforms literature from simple storytelling into a rich exploration of ideas and emotions. Symbols allow readers to experience universal themes in a way that feels tangible and personal. Symbolism also encourages active reading: instead of passively absorbing a plot, readers can analyze symbols to uncover deeper messages and interpret the text in new ways. On a cultural level, symbolism bridges individual stories with collective human experiences, helping literature endure across time and place. When readers identify symbols, they connect not just with characters, but with the broader truths those symbols represent.