Symbolism is a literary device used to develop the meaning of a specific situation or object. Often, symbolism represents a concept that hints toward a certain outcome or result. In the short story “The Red Convertible”, by Louise Erdrich, the car works as a symbol for the relationship between protagonists Lyman and Henry, symbolizing their youth and freedom, the breakdown of their relationship , and trauma over a once-pleasant life.
The car is first presented as a symbol to the story when the brothers spontaneously purchase it together. The bright red colour of the car was a symbol of the brothers love and passion, for each other, and for adventure; though it later became a symbol of pain and anger. When they found it, the car was” parked, large as life, [...] reposed, calm and gleaming.” The vehicle was ready for adventure, as were the two boys, fresh out of high school. The fact that it was a convertible contributes to the idea that the brothers possessed something rich in their relationship, a quality of value. …show more content…
Lyman kept the car in good shape for his brother while he was gone, but was worried when he discovered his brother was psychologically, and even physically agitated. At this point in the story, Lyman decided to trash the car, in hope to gain back his old brother. This proves to be ironic, because Lyman is destroying the symbol of his relationship with his brother, with the intent of improving their interactions. For a period of time, his methods worked successfully, and Henry went to fixing the vehicle back to it’s “A-one shape”, which, similarly, improved the boys’ relationship, if only for a
The car is first presented as a symbol to the story when the brothers spontaneously purchase it together. The bright red colour of the car was a symbol of the brothers love and passion, for each other, and for adventure; though it later became a symbol of pain and anger. When they found it, the car was” parked, large as life, [...] reposed, calm and gleaming.” The vehicle was ready for adventure, as were the two boys, fresh out of high school. The fact that it was a convertible contributes to the idea that the brothers possessed something rich in their relationship, a quality of value. …show more content…
Lyman kept the car in good shape for his brother while he was gone, but was worried when he discovered his brother was psychologically, and even physically agitated. At this point in the story, Lyman decided to trash the car, in hope to gain back his old brother. This proves to be ironic, because Lyman is destroying the symbol of his relationship with his brother, with the intent of improving their interactions. For a period of time, his methods worked successfully, and Henry went to fixing the vehicle back to it’s “A-one shape”, which, similarly, improved the boys’ relationship, if only for a