Instant Access To 100,000+ Essays!

“Symbolism and Plot” Symbolism and plot are different from each other by definition; however, have a relationship towards each other when writing a story. If you understand the symbolism in a story, then you will absolutely understand the plot or the plan of events in a story. Symbolism is utilized as an enhancement tool to stress the plot of each story. Symbolism is used greatly in the short stories “Chrysanthemums” by John Steinbeck, and “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson; therefore, symbolism has a tendency to influence the plot in both short stories. The short stories both share the use of symbols, but the symbols are used to express different thoughts in ones mind while reading them. Many examples of symbolism are given to influence the plot in John Steinbeck’s short story, “The Chrysanthemums.” He uses the flowers to symbolize the main character’s thoughts and ideas. For example, Elisa Allen is a lonely woman who enjoys growing and nourishing her chrysanthemums. Since her husband is always working the cattle in their farm, she never has enough attention or any kind of affection. The result of this dispassionate marriage leads Steinbeck to describe his main character as, “Her face lean and strong