Use of symbols

Here, we will dicuss the use of symbols in “On Pale Green Walls” by Clare Wigfall. Symbols are words (concepts) which have been given an additional meaning by the author, apart from their literal one, to reflect the themes and messages of the story.

The most important symbols used in this short story are the Virgin Mary, the bird, the photograph of the tribesmen and the priests, and Violet’s mute condition.

The Virgin Mary

The Virgin Mary symbolises the ideal mother that Violet would like to have. Statues or pictures of Virgin Mary depict her as pure love and kindness from the little girl’s perspective. Contrary to the image the girl has of the Virgin Mary, Violet’s mother comes across as less affectionate and … 

The bird

The bird Violet finds on the street and takes with her is a symbol of Violet and her own vulnerability. Like the small bird, Violet also needs to feel protected. When her mother … 

The picture of tribesmen and priests

Finally, the picture of tribesmen and priests illustrates miscommunication and misunderstanding. Because they speak different languages and come … 

Mutism

The fact that Violet is mute makes her symbolic of all children more generally. Violet’s mute state exaggerates her inability to understand the world around her, and this makes her a more …