Symbolism Analysis of the Novel "All the Dangerous Things" by Stacy Willingham

Abstract

This research examines the use of symbolism in Stacy Willingham's novel All the Dangerous Things through the lens of New Criticism. The novel's primary themes of trauma, guilt, and loss are explored through many symbols, including dark and light, water, and paintings. These symbols serve to represent the psychological and emotional state of the protagonist, Isabelle, as she navigates the traumatic disappearance of her son. The researcher utilizes qualitative methods, including close reading and thematic analysis, to interpret the meaning of the symbols within the novel's narrative structure. The New Critical approach highlights the intertextual connections within the novel, thereby elucidating how the symbolism contributes to the overarching thematic structure. The analysis reveals that light symbolizes the hope and elusive truth that Isabelle seeks throughout the novel. Water symbolizes the depth of her emotional trauma and her sense of being overwhelmed by memories, and painting symbolizes the impact of past family trauma on her present circumstances. It also provides valuable contributions to the existing literature on contemporary literary studies by elucidating how symbolism shapes meanings in modern literature.