It Ends With Us: Literary Analysis

Symbols

The novel "It Ends With Us" by Colleen Hoover makes extensive use of symbols to convey themes and emotions. Here are some of the most significant symbols and their meanings:

Lily's Notebook

Lily's notebook is a significant symbol in the novel. It is where she writes her thoughts and feelings and is a symbol of her desire to be heard and understood. The notebook also represents her journey of self-discovery and self-reflection. Through her writing, Lily realizes her strength and the need to prioritize her well-being.

The Atlas Flower

The Atlas flower is a symbol of hope and second chances. It represents Atlas, the boy Lily fell in love with in her teenage years, and their relationship. The Atlas flower signifies the hope for a new beginning and the possibility of a better life.

The Water Tower

The water tower is a symbol of strength and perseverance. Lily often looks to the water tower when she needs to find the courage to face a difficult situation. The water tower represents the strength within herself and the determination to overcome any obstacle.

The Elephant

The elephant is a symbol of memory and forgiveness. When Lily was a child, her father gave her an elephant necklace, and she uses it as a reminder of her father's abuse. Later in the story, she learns to forgive her father and let go of the pain associated with the necklace.

The Scar on Lily's Hand

The scar on Lily's hand is a symbol of her past and the trauma she endured. It also represents the strength she gained from overcoming her abuse and the courage to move forward.

The Subway Train

The subway train symbolizes change and the possibility of new beginnings. Lily takes the train to visit Atlas, and it marks the beginning of their relationship.

The Swing

The swing is a symbol of childhood innocence and freedom. It represents the happy moments in Lily's childhood before her father's abuse began. The swing also serves as a symbol of the contrast between her happy childhood and her traumatic experiences.

The Bathtub

The bathtub is a symbol of vulnerability and safety. Lily feels safe and protected when she is in the bathtub, and it is where she has some of her most introspective moments. The bathtub also represents the importance of self-care and self-reflection.

Overall, the use of symbols in "It Ends With Us" helps to convey the emotions and themes of the novel in a more profound and meaningful way. The symbols serve as a reminder of the characters' struggles and the hope for a better future. Through these symbols, the reader can gain a deeper understanding of the characters and their experiences.