Somone shared this link with me regarding symbolism. I found it interesting because it asked many of our great authors about their use of symbolism. Overwhelmingly it is not planned. It made me think a little about my own writing. I have at times tried to put symbolism in my writings and it always struck me as false and contrived. During revision I find times where symbolism has come up in my mind, and I embellish that some during revision. I really do feel that symbolism often is in the eye of the beholder.I felt much better seeing the response from famous and well respected authors. Do you put symbolism in your writing on purpose? Do you plan it or look for it? What strikes you as interesting in the authors responses? Personally I liked the response from Ayn Rand the most interesting. It totally fits her personality. Take a look and enjoy.

Here is the link.

I actually do plan a little of mine,but it always plays into the plot. It's like a clue to the future chapters and stories in the series. I don't know if that makes it any different or not. I don't, however, plan all of it.

This is a great read, Frank--thanks for sharing it!

I can honestly say I never think about symbolism when writing. It's an interesting question, though--I'll have to go through some of my stories and see if any symbolism pops up :-)

(I really should spend more time editing my novels)