Symbolism is often used to achieve vitality, economy, and depth. The literary critic applies the term to an image, a descriptive detail, a plot pattern, or a character type that occurs frequently in literature, myth, religion, or folklore and is, therefore, believed to evoke profound emotions because it touches the unconscious memory and thus calls into play illogical but strong responses. Since the theme is not explicitly stated many different interpretations are possible as long as the reader can find enough evidence from the work itself to support the interpretation. A theme is an outgrowth of central conflict. Analyze a central event in the work to lead you to an understanding of theme.
Meanings come from an outgrowth of a combination of theme, symbolism, and figurative language.