The book Chrysanthemums by John Ernst Steinbeck is full of symbolism. The most obvious and closest to the reader meaning of symbolism is the glorification of nature. In the novel, nature appears both as a living object of observation and as a symbol. For example, natural features such as mountains, valleys, forests are symbolic images that can have deep and multi-layered meanings for different characters. At the beginning of the novel, the mountains represent a place of protection for children after the loss of their father. The valley is another important symbol in the story. It is described as “vast and sumptuous and dark” and serves as a contrast to Elisa’s small garden. It symbolizes Elisa’s desire to break free from her entrapment and explore the larger world. Thus, nature is used as a symbol to illustrate the changes in the psychological and spiritual state of the characters.
The symbolism is also represented by to illustrating the struggles of the main character Elisa Allen, the protagonist of the story. Throughout the story, Steinbeck uses symbolism to reflect Elisa’s feelings of entrapment and her longing for freedom. The main symbolic element in the story is the chrysanthemums themselves. They are used to show Elisa’s inner beauty and potential that is being stifled by her mundane life. The chrysanthemums also represent Elisa’s hope and determination, as she spends her time carefully tending to them and pruning them to perfection.
In addition, the fence serves a symbolic purpose in the story. It appears to be Elisa’s emotional and physical boundaries. When the tinker admires her flowers, Elisa stands behind her fence, indicating her desire to keep her femininity separate from the outside world. Finally, the rain at the end of the story symbolizes Elisa’s newfound strength and determination. After her husband leaves for the saloon, Elisa goes out into the rain and tears off her apron, which illustrates her newfound assertiveness and strength.