Workshop: Discover
Words That Sing
“Every poetic image,
therefore, is to some degree metaphorical. It looks out from a mirror in which
life perceives not so much its face as some truth about its face.” C. Day
Lewis
A tree is often used as a symbol or metaphor of growth and
life. However, in reverse, it can also impact story by exposing lies and
shadows. Fairy tales and folk tales are rich with living images in all forms,
literally and figuratively. Scriptures too remind us that choices spread beyond immediate
actions.
“For the creation was
subjected to futility, not of its own will but by the will of the one who
subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its
bondage to decay.” Romans 8: 20-21 NRSV
In the opening of the movie Penelope, a curse is laid upon the family for their refusal to take
responsibility for their actions. The tree is the courtyard falls into
immediate decay as well. Yet it doesn’t die. Instead it remains as a visual
image reminding the family and others of the curse. Even if they try to pretend
it doesn’t exist, the tree stands in judgment as a silent metaphor.
And it raises story questions such as why are women willing
to marry into this family? Do they not believe in the curse or do they not
care? Or because it was a tree did they believe that growth would come again to
restore life?
What metaphor warning could your character not see or
acknowledge? Or what warning does she represent to others? Silent metaphors
woven into your setting can speak into volumes of interpretation.
Action Steps:
1.
Brainstorm a list of growing vegetation, or
other geographic elements, that could be a metaphor for loss to your
protagonist and then be restored at the end of his ordeal.
2.
How do you hope your reader will interpret it?
Share: What did you choose and why?
Read deep, marcy
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