Let's take the black box in The Lottery as an example. On the surface, it's just a simple box, but Jackson uses it as a symbol to represent the unknown, the mysterious, and the feared. This is an example of figurative language at work, where an object is used to represent an abstract idea. By analyzing the black box and other symbols in the story, we can uncover the deeper meanings and themes that Jackson is trying to convey.
Symbolism In The Lottery Story By Shirley Jackson
Another great example is the character of Tessie Hutchinson. On the surface, she's just a housewife who's a bit of a chatterbox, but Jackson uses her dialogue and actions to represent the complacency and conformity of the community. By using figurative language to create complex characters, Jackson can comment on societal issues and encourage readers to think critically about the world around them.