A Journey into the Darkness: Symbolism in “The Fall of the House of Usher”
With just a few short words of “vacant and eye-like windows” (Poe 122), the description of those that reside in the mansion of “The Fall of the House of Usher” has been laid before the reader. As an author puts pen to paper, the creative use of words can be found to bring forth symbolism that means more than just a description of an object, event, or person. It embodies the essence of the heart and soul of what it reflects.
The House as a Mirror
Edgar Allen Poe’s use of literary devices and theories is spectacular as he takes the reader on an emotional and intellectual rollercoaster. With the use of symbolism, he paints a picture of the death, depression, and doom that awaits the family within the mansion. The unnamed visitor in the story is given a glimpse into something deep within the family before he enters the door. Poe paints such an intricate picture that foreshadowing and symbolism easily get combined to create a color sensation of darkness drawing the reader deeper into the story and plays upon the emotions.
No Life
The first thing the visitor notices as he rides up to his old school friend’s house is the “vacant and eye-like windows” (122) which unknowingly symbolizes to him and the rest of the world, the…
