Symbols

In your analytical essay, you are also asked to focus on the use of symbols in “People-Watching” by Julia Gray. Remember that in literature, symbols refer to those narrative elements that have a hidden meaning, apart from their traditional one. This meaning is usually connected to the themes of the text or its characters.

People-watching

In this particular short story, the activity of “people-watching” has a symbolic role, apart from its textual meaning. The two characters are on an assignment to watch and draw people on the street. However, the grammar behind this...

...

The Paddington station

Equally, Paddington station is also a symbol of death for the protagonist, as the roof reminds him of his sister’s accident and subsequent death.

...

The drawings

Lastly, the drawings of the two characters become symbolic expressions of their personalities and their inner feelings.

...