How Does 'Through The Looking-Glass' Use Poetry To Enrich Its Narrative?

In 'It Follows', the symbolism is woven so intricately into the narrative that it feels like a character itself. The relentless, shape-shifting entity that pursues the protagonist, Jay, is a metaphor for the inescapable nature of trauma, guilt, or even mortality. It’s not just a monster; it’s a manifestation of the things we can’t outrun, no matter how fast we move or how far we go. The entity’s slow, methodical approach contrasts with the frantic energy of the characters, emphasizing how some fears are patient and inevitable. The setting, a decaying Detroit suburb, mirrors this theme of inevitability. The empty streets, abandoned houses, and overgrown lawns create a sense of isolation and decay, reflecting Jay’s internal state. The film’s use of time is also symbolic—the characters are often seen in outdated clothing or surrounded by retro technology, blurring the line between past and present. This suggests that the past is always chasing us, just like the entity. One of the most striking symbols is the pool scene. Water often represents purification or rebirth, but here, it becomes a trap. Jay and her friends try to fight the entity in the pool, but their efforts are futile. The water, instead of cleansing, becomes a suffocating force, symbolizing how confronting trauma can sometimes feel overwhelming rather than liberating. For those who enjoy films that use symbolism to deepen their horror, I’d recommend 'The Babadook', which explores grief through its monstrous figure, or 'Hereditary', where family trauma is symbolized through eerie, unsettling imagery. If you’re into anime, 'Perfect Blue' uses psychological symbolism to blur reality and illusion in a similarly haunting way.

In 'The Sympathizer', symbolism is woven deeply into the narrative, enriching its layers of meaning. The protagonist’s dual identity as a spy is mirrored in the recurring motif of mirrors and reflections. These aren’t just physical objects but metaphors for his fractured self, constantly torn between loyalty and betrayal. The novel also uses the 'two faces' of the moon to symbolize the duality of his existence—one side always hidden, much like his true intentions. Another powerful symbol is the 'tiger', representing both the ferocity of war and the protagonist’s internal struggle. The tiger appears in dreams and memories, a reminder of the untamed, primal nature of conflict. Even the act of eating becomes symbolic; the protagonist’s consumption of dog meat, for instance, reflects his moral compromises and the dehumanization of war. These symbols don’t just decorate the story—they drive it, forcing readers to confront the complexities of identity, loyalty, and survival.

In 'YA', symbolism is woven into every layer of the story, creating a rich tapestry that deepens the reader’s connection to the narrative. The recurring image of the broken compass is a standout—it represents the protagonist’s lost sense of direction after a family tragedy. As the story progresses, the compass gets repaired piece by piece, mirroring their emotional healing. Another powerful symbol is the oak tree in their backyard. It’s not just a tree; it’s a witness to their childhood memories, family gatherings, and even their most private struggles. When a storm splits it in half, it’s a turning point, forcing the characters to confront their fractured relationships. The author uses these symbols subtly, never over-explaining, which makes the narrative feel organic and immersive. Additionally, the use of seasons as symbols is brilliant. Winter represents isolation and grief, while spring signifies renewal and hope. The protagonist’s journey from winter to spring is both literal and metaphorical, as they learn to forgive themselves and others. Even the color palette in the novel is symbolic—shades of blue dominate during moments of sadness, while warm yellows and oranges appear during moments of joy and connection. These symbols don’t just enhance the story; they make it resonate on a deeper level, leaving readers with a sense of catharsis and understanding.

In 'Book Off', symbolism is woven into the narrative like a subtle thread, enriching the story without overwhelming it. The most striking symbol is the bookstore itself, which represents a sanctuary for lost souls and forgotten dreams. The way the characters interact with the books—touching their spines, reading passages aloud, or simply sitting in silence—mirrors their internal journeys. The bookstore becomes a metaphor for memory, where each book is a fragment of the past waiting to be rediscovered. Another powerful symbol is the recurring image of a broken clock in the store. It’s always stuck at 3:17, a time that holds personal significance for the protagonist. This frozen moment in time reflects the character’s inability to move forward, trapped in a cycle of regret and longing. The clock isn’t just a decorative piece; it’s a mirror of the protagonist’s emotional state, a constant reminder of the moment everything changed. The books themselves are also symbolic, each one chosen carefully to reflect the characters’ struggles and growth. For instance, a tattered copy of 'The Great Gatsby' appears multiple times, symbolizing the protagonist’s obsession with an idealized past. The way the characters handle these books—whether they’re buying, selling, or simply holding them—reveals their emotional arcs. If you’re drawn to stories where symbolism plays a key role, I’d recommend 'The Shadow of the Wind' by Carlos Ruiz Zafón or the film 'The Bookshop'. Both explore how physical spaces and objects can carry deep emotional weight. For a more modern take, try the series 'Tales from the Loop', where everyday objects become gateways to profound truths.

In 'The Lincoln Lawyer', symbolism is woven subtly but powerfully throughout the narrative. The Lincoln Town Car itself is a central symbol—it’s not just Mickey Haller’s mobile office but represents his adaptability and resourcefulness. The car’s constant movement mirrors his restless pursuit of justice, never staying in one place too long. The courtroom, another key symbol, is a stage where truths and lies clash. It’s not just a physical space but a battleground for morality and manipulation. Even the clients Mickey defends symbolize different facets of society—some innocent, some guilty, but all reflecting the complexities of the legal system. The book uses these symbols to explore themes of redemption, morality, and the blurred lines between right and wrong.

In 'Divergence', symbolism is woven into every layer of the story, making it feel alive. The most striking symbol is the river that runs through the town, representing the flow of time and the inevitability of change. The protagonist often reflects on its currents, mirroring her own struggles with letting go of the past. Another powerful symbol is the broken clock in her childhood home, which stands still at the exact moment her family fell apart. It’s a constant reminder of the trauma she’s trying to escape. The author also uses the recurring image of a bird trapped in a cage to symbolize her fear of commitment and freedom. These symbols aren’t just decorative—they deepen the emotional resonance of the narrative, making it relatable for anyone grappling with loss or transformation. If you enjoy symbolic storytelling, 'The Night Circus' by Erin Morgenstern is a must-read, with its dreamlike imagery and layered meanings.

In 'Misery', Stephen King uses symbolism masterfully to deepen the narrative. The typewriter, for instance, isn’t just a tool; it’s a lifeline for Paul Sheldon, representing his creativity and sanity. When Annie destroys it, it’s not just an act of violence—it’s a symbolic severing of his identity. The snowstorm outside mirrors Paul’s isolation and helplessness, trapping him in a physical and emotional prison. Even Annie’s pet pig, Misery, symbolizes her twisted sense of control and obsession. These symbols aren’t just decorative; they amplify the tension and psychological horror, making the story resonate on a deeper level. If you’re into symbolic storytelling, 'The Shining' by King also uses setting and objects to reflect characters’ inner turmoil.

In 'The Lincoln Lawyer', symbolism is woven into the narrative to deepen the themes of justice and morality. The Lincoln Town Car itself is a powerful symbol—it represents Mickey Haller's mobile office but also his liminal existence between the law and the streets. The car is both a sanctuary and a prison, reflecting Haller's internal conflict as he navigates the murky waters of the legal system. The constant movement of the car mirrors his restless pursuit of truth, yet it also isolates him from the stability of a traditional office, symbolizing his outsider status in the legal world. Another key symbol is the scales of justice, which appear subtly throughout the story. They’re not just a nod to Haller’s profession but a reminder of the moral balancing act he performs daily. The scales tip precariously as he defends clients who may or may not be guilty, forcing him to weigh his duty to the law against his personal ethics. This tension is heightened in scenes where Haller interacts with his clients in the backseat of the Lincoln, a space that becomes a microcosm of the courtroom itself. For readers who enjoy layered storytelling, I’d recommend 'To Kill a Mockingbird', where the mockingbird symbolizes innocence and moral integrity. If you’re drawn to legal dramas with rich symbolism, 'The Night Of' is a gripping series that uses visual motifs to explore themes of guilt and redemption. 'The Lincoln Lawyer' masterfully uses these symbols to elevate its narrative, making it a standout in the genre.