How can you use symbolism and metaphor to win a writing competition?

1 What are symbolism and metaphor?

Symbolism and metaphor are literary devices that use one thing to represent or suggest another. Symbolism is when you use an object, person, place, or event to convey a deeper meaning or theme. For example, a rose can symbolize love, beauty, or fragility. Metaphor is when you compare two things that are not literally alike, but share some similarities. For example, you can say that life is a roller coaster, meaning that it has ups and downs, twists and turns.

2 Why use symbolism and metaphor?

Symbolism and metaphor can enhance your writing in several ways. They can help you create vivid images and sensory details that appeal to your readers' imagination. They can also help you express complex or abstract ideas in a simple or creative way. Moreover, they can help you establish a tone, mood, or atmosphere for your story, as well as reveal your characters' personality, motivation, or conflict. By using symbolism and metaphor, you can show rather than tell your story, which is a key skill for any writer.

3 How to use symbolism and metaphor?

To use symbolism and metaphor effectively, you need to consider your purpose, audience, and genre. You need to have a clear idea of what you want to communicate, who you want to reach, and what kind of story you are writing. You also need to choose symbols and metaphors that are relevant, appropriate, and original. Avoid using clichés, stereotypes, or overused images that may bore or confuse your readers. Instead, try to find fresh, surprising, or meaningful connections that suit your theme, style, and voice.

4 How to find symbolism and metaphor?

One way to find symbolism and metaphor is to brainstorm words, images, or concepts that relate to your topic, theme, or message. You can use a mind map, a word list, or a free association technique to generate ideas. Then, you can look for patterns, contrasts, or similarities among them. For example, if you are writing about freedom, you can brainstorm words like bird, cage, flight, key, lock, escape, etc. Then, you can see how you can use them as symbols or metaphors in your story.

Another way to find symbolism and metaphor is to observe your surroundings, experiences, or emotions. You can use your senses, memory, or imagination to notice details, associations, or impressions that inspire you. For example, if you are writing about loneliness, you can observe how you feel when you are alone, what you see, hear, or touch, or what memories or fantasies come to your mind. Then, you can use them as symbols or metaphors in your story.

5 How to refine symbolism and metaphor?

Once you have some ideas for symbolism and metaphor, you need to refine them to make them clear, consistent, and coherent. You need to make sure that your symbols and metaphors fit your story, support your plot, and develop your characters. You also need to make sure that your symbols and metaphors are not too obvious, vague, or confusing. You can use clues, context, or dialogue to explain or hint at their meaning, but avoid being too explicit or repetitive. You can also use feedback, editing, or revision to polish your symbols and metaphors and make them more effective and impactful.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?