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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, Doodle's neck, red with blood, and legs, thin and stiffly jointed, liken him strongly to the ibis. Symbolism is unmistakably an important element in the style of this story, but one more factor helps to define the distinct style of this story.
Image is the most important element of style in "The Scarlet Ibis." For example, to depict the summer of drought and misfortune James Hurst portrays the withered crops shriveling under the blistering gaze of the thirsty sun. The hurricane is likened to a bloodthirsty "hawk at the entrails of a chicken." This creates a picture of ruin and destruction in the mind of the reader. Also, Old woman Swamp and the happy times the boys spent there are described in vivid, glowing terms. The honeysuckle and water lilies are woven into wreaths and crowns which transform the boys into youthful kings of this glorious, luxurious paradise "beyond the reach of the everyday world." "The slanted rays of the sun burn orange in the pines," and thus the fantastic day of splendor comes to an almost divine conclusion. This eloquent passage produces in the reader's mind a brilliant image of peace, beauty, and happiness. Moreover, the opening scene is another example of an image used in this story. The yard is described with such...
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