Symbolism in Rules of the Road

Merriam-Webster dictionary defines 'symbol' as: something that stands for or suggests something else by reason of relationship, association, convention, or accidental resemblance; especially : a visible sign of something invisible <the lion is a symbol of courage>. Using that definition, I looked though Rules of the Road by Joan Bauer. There are important symbols in Rules of the Road.

The first symbol I found was Jenna's job. I thought it represented a safety place for her. One reason is that she is good at it. Jenna can forget everything and just sell shoes. Another reason is that no one there really knows about her problems. She doesn't have to worry about her alcoholic father. Lastly, she likes it, which makes it an ideal place for her.

Another symbol I found was the Cadillac. It represents Mrs. Gladstone. They are both all over and being worn away on the road or in life. Also they are somewhat dying and losing control. Things are replacing them, like new cars and Elden.

The last symbol I found was the road trip. Their road trip can represent Jenna's life. She does not know what she will encounter in either the trip or her life. Because of this, she also learns things on the road as well as in her life (page 113).

Symbols are in books to illustrate a deeper meaning. Instead of just a car, we can see Mrs. Gladstone. The road trip depicts Jenna's life. Finally, Jenna's job represents her safe place. As you can see, the symbols in Rules of the Road are important.