Symbolism and Allusion

Symbolism and Allusion

What major symbols are used?

How appropriate is each symbol in its respective poem?

How do the poets use the symbols to focus on the problems they present in their poems?

Allusions and symbols are critical components of an interesting and understandable poem. Poets rely heavily on them because of the need to economize their words. Poems don't waste words on detailed explanations in order to be understood. They rely instead on the reader to use his own process for interpreting and connecting to the meaning, whether or not he understands the allusions or symbolism.

The Penfield Study Guide poses this question: "When does a word mean more than a word? …When it's an allusion. (p.213)" A more defined meaning is that allusions are unacknowledged references or quotations which the author assumes the reader will recognize, and relate to the context of his poem. Conversely, a symbol is defined as anything -- an object, person, place, idea or situation that stands for itself and also gathers to it a larger meaning. For example, a flag could be a symbol representing freedom or surrender, depending on the color and occasion. However, by using two simple words, "Old Glory," the reader can instantly relate the allusion to the American flag and mentally recall all of the historical images associated with it. What power for two words!

This paper will use three poems, "80-Proof" (A. R. Ammons, 1975), "A Final Thing" (Li-Young Lee, 1990) and "Resume" (Dorothy Parker, 1936), to illustrate the creativeness and variety of allusions and symbols, and their usefulness in drawing the reader into the poem. Without them, these poems would not be nearly as interesting or effective, and definitely less ...

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...e is felt in his subtle approach and diffused symbols and allusions. The serenity and quietness in the father's thoughts as he listens, and the mother's gentle, early morning words to her son provide a peaceful and calming effect on the reader.

What all poets have in common is a love of language -- its words, its meanings, its rhythms, its sounds, even its shapes (Literary Visions, p. 141). It is this language, in the form of allusions and symbols that gives meaning and interest to poems, and gives the reader an insight into the poet's unique view. "Poets use an intuitive process. They don't cognitively think about allusions, nor do they have to know the allusions. The poetry that succeeds best is one that touches the instinctive something we all share. That something celebrates the communion with what we are and what we believe" (Dorn, Video Program #116).