Symbolism

“Compass And Torch” employs several symbolic elements that help tell a story with no clear plot or action. They can be viewed as keys to interpreting the complicated relationship between the boy and his father and may also act as “messenger” to the realm of the subconscious.

The two most important elements are also part of the title, "Compass And Torch"…

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The torch

The torch helps one see things and make his way through the dark. Both father and son have brought torches with them, as both of them are trying (each in his own way) to cast light on the difficult relationship between them:

“Have you brought one too, have you brought a torch?”
“O…

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The compass

While both the man and the boy bring torches, they both forget to bring a compass:

The man looks up – for the first time – at the path they will take, which runs from the gate to the brow of the hill. Then he groans: “I didn’t bring a compass.” The boy’s eyes are suddenly wide with fear and dismay: not with the notion that they’ll get lost, but because of the way the m…