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Symbols are objects, characters, figures, or colors used to represent abstract ideas or concepts.

The Chairman Mao Statue

The Cultural Revolution has been over for some time when the story takes place. But a large statue of Chairman Mao still stands in a prominent place in the square in Muji. The statue stands tall and is larger than life. It towers above the market vendors, the hotel workers, and the people lounging at its feet, and a flock of pigeons perch on the statue’s arm. That the statue remains, even though Chairman Mao is of the past, indicates that he is still venerated by the populace, or at least by the local authorities in power. The statue is a symbol for the far-reaching effects of the Cultural Revolution and of Chairman Mao’s influence. It means that in spite of Mr. Chiu’s belief that everyone is now equal before the law, the police can still act with impunity against citizens even if they have done nothing to merit arrest or prosecution. The pigeons perched on the statue’s arm symbolize the police officers and corrupt officials as well. The arm is a safe place for them to perch. In their position on the statue’s arm, high above the square, the pigeons are safe from being attacked by humans or other ground-based animals. In this manner, the police officials are also kept safe from any repercussions or vengeance from the populace, supported by the ways of the old regime.

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