The Scarlet Ibis
Foreshadowing, symbolism, and imagery are all elements, which compose style. All are very important; foreshadowing adds suspense, and symbolism contributes to interpretation. Imagery contributes "visual aids" which, also, aid interpretation. In this classic short story, "The Scarlet Ibis," by James Hurst, foreshadowing, symbolism, and imagery combine to create a true literary masterpiece. Foreshadowing is one of the elements of style, which make "The Scarlet Ibis" great. For example, the author states, "The last graveyard flowers were blooming, and their smell drifted through our house, speaking softly the names of our dead." This passage clearly foreshadows the death of Doodle. Also, Hurst comments on Doodle's full name, "William Armstrong," that "such a name sounds good only on a tombstone," again foreshadowing Doodle's death. Later, Doodle's cries of "Don't leave me! Don't leave me!" are a parallel to the moment when the terrified little boy once again cries out, "Don't leave me!" when his older brother does actually leave him. Moreover, Aunt Nicey say
s that red dead birds are very bad luck, foreshadowing Doodle's death again. Finally, the death of the scarlet ibis, which is so rare and wonderful, like Doodle, is the most important foreshadowing of the small boy's death. Foreshadowing is definitely very important in this story, but two more elements also contribute to the distinction of its style. Symbolism is another important element in the style of "The Scarlet Ibis." For example, in Doodle's "lies," the ten-foot tail of the small peacock refers to the author's description of Doodle's full name, "William Armstrong," as "a big tail on a small kite" like the long fancy tail on the small bird. Also, the grindstone grinds away the years, revealing the brother's memories of doodle. Moreover, the mahogany coffin symbolizes Doodle's death when his brother forces him to touch it. Furthermore, beautiful Old Woman Swamp symbolizes paradise for the two boys; there they spend their happiest days. Finally, the rare scarlet ibis symbolizes Doodle. Both are rare and wonderful, and both die the same day. Also,
Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 725
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)
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