Symbolism in Why I Live at the P.O

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SYMBOLISM IN WHY I LIVE AT THE P.O
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Author Note:
SYMBOLISM IN WHY I LIVE AT THE P.O
The aim of this essay is to discuss the symbolism in Why I Live At The P.O, written by
Eudora Welty. In this particular story, the author has detailed the story of a woman living in a
small town of Mississippi. She has set up a housekeeping in post office for escaping her odd
family. A story is full of symbol which has relevant and intense meaning woven in its every
sentence.
The 4th of July is an important symbol as this day decides the fate of the protagonist. This
story takes place in 4th July when Sister decides to live at the PO. It is the day she declared her
independence to her family. Another symbol such as The Prodigal has a biblical connection with
it. The return of Stella-Rondo has been associated with the story of the return of prodigal son
when the story is seen from the point of view of Sister. From this perception, Stella-Rondo has
symbolised the leaving of the ungrateful person whose return must be igniting some sense of
resentment in the family but actually ignites a sense of joy and welcoming feeing (Gale).
The symbol of the post office in this story has very important aspect to discover. The post
office where the protagonist lives, is the centre of communication for the town. In this place, the
information comes from outside and goes out to that world from those who live there. This is the
reason why the Sister settles here and overcome the problem of communication with the family
members. Sister desired to talk to somebody and share her feelings with the others but in home,
no one talks to her and she cannot talk to them (Gale). This is why the post office represents a