Use Of Symbols In The Novel 'How To Read Literature Like A Professor'

Jessica O’Reilly 8/15/16

And the Mountains Echoed - Summer Reading Essay Period 2

All forms of literature consist of patterns that can be discovered through critical and analytical reading, observing and comparing. Many patterns are discussed in the novel, How to Read Literature like a Professor, by Thomas C. Foster. Among these patterns, he discusses the use of symbolism and the representation something can have for a different, underlying aspect of a piece of literature. These symbols tend to have multiple meanings and endless interpretations depending on who is reading and analyzing them. No matter

Foster discusses that, “Symbols, though, generally don’t work so neatly. The thing referred to is likely not reducible to a single statement but will more probably involve a range of possible meanings and interpretations,” (Foster,105). This idea is shown through the different meanings the box of feathers, given by Abdullah to Pari, holds.This object which out of context would seem confusing and even bizarre, can be interpreted to represent Abdullah’s immense love for his sister. Abdullah first helped Pari collect the feathers when they were very young and then kept them for many years in hopes he would be able to give it to Pari and also to show he never forgot about her. This is shown when Pari receives the note attached to the feathers from Abdullah that reads, “They tell me I must wade into waters, where I will soon drown. Before I march in, I leave this on the shore for you. I pray you find it, sister, so you know what was in my heart as I went under,” (Hosseini, 418). This was written the same time Abdullah was diagnosed with Alzheimers and he is saying soon he will not be the same and able to remember her because his old, healthy self will “drown”. This note shows his love for his sister and that he was always thinking of her, especially since the letter was attached to the feathers which are a symbol of this love. This example also supports another possible meaning for the box of feathers, that it represents the end of their youth and relationship. Although Pari remembers Abdullah, she does not remember the feather’s importance and meaning. Also, Abdullah made the package for her when he was diagnosed with the disease that made him forget Pari and their relationship. Due to this disremember for both of them, the box of feathers could be interpreted in an almost opposite way as the other meaning. The box of feathers is an