When you read or write a story, you may wonder why authors use symbolism. Well, symbols can show complex ideas with just a few words. Each symbol can have many different meanings; It depends on the person's point of view. A novel or story with good symbolism can be read and understood in two ways. The first way is the literal one, the story taken from a stated point of view. The second way involves recognizing and understanding the symbolism used. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay In Ray Bradbury's short story "The Drummer of Shiloh" symbolism plays a huge role. An example of symbolism is the pile of sticks and leaves made by the general. This pile may not look like much, but it could symbolize his army and the war. The fact that the general is building this could symbolize the building of his army. The leaves and sticks could symbolize the lives of the soldiers, some will last longer than others when war breaks out. For example, sticks last longer than leaves in the fire. Another example of symbolism in “The Drummer of Shiloh” is when the main character, Joby, begins counting the men who were sleeping on the floor. (In lines 14-19) When Joby is unable to continue counting, this could symbolize how many people died in the actual Battle of Shiloh. Ray Bradbury also used something called repeated symbolism throughout the story. Repeated symbolism is when a symbol appears more than once. Like peach blossoms, they appear many times in the story and each time something changes. At the beginning, when Joby is sleeping, a peach blossom falls and wakes him up. As Joby sits, another flower falls and he begins to regret his decision to run away and join the army. While Joby is crying, another flower falls and attracts the general's attention. When the general arrives, he helps Joby deal with the thought of war and gives him the courage to go into battle the next day. Finally, another flower falls as Joby falls asleep. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Symbolism is a vital tool that allows the author to show meaning and imagery. When it's done well, it adds power to the story and the impact is greater. With symbolism, the writer has the opportunity to see the story from a deeper perspective. It also allows the reader to form their own opinion about the symbols, making the work more universal.