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WHAT IS A SYMBOL?
A word, phrase, or image that has complex meanings. In other words, when a certain object, picture or idea is used in literature to really represent something else, it is a symbol. If you are reading and a certain idea or object keeps reappearing, being described in interesting and complicated ways, there is a good chance it is meant to be looked at on a deeper levelperhaps a symbol of something else! For example: We notice that Laurie Halse Anderson continually brings up trees in Speak, so it becomes our job as the reader to look deeper into why she makes such a big deal about trees. What is she really trying to get us to see?
You cannot have healthy branches if the roots are damaged. Eventually the disease will spread throughout the tree, taking over.
How have Melindas roots been damaged? Once her roots were damaged, what were the consequences that followed? What branches withered and died?
Pruning 101
Pruning is when branches are cut back. If you do not prune branches, the tree will become overgrown.
If you prune too much, the tree will bear less fruit and leaves, and will not appear beautiful.
Removal of deadwood or diseased limbs will usually result in an ugly plant.
Has Melinda lost so many branches that she is now ugly? Who is responsible for breaking down these branches?
Pruning branches on trees not yet planted does not help a tree grow better or establish a balance between the roots and the branches.
A newly planted tree needs all the leaves it has to help support the growth of new roots. Pruning trees before they are ready hurts the trees ability to become established. How do you think the events in Melindas life will shape the way she grows and develops in the
Clearly Laurie Halse Anderson has a plan when she plants the idea of trees in this novel. The tree gradually becomes a symbol in the text that represents Melindas suffering and recovery. Does this symbol make sense to you? Is it a good choice by the author to use a tree to symbolize Melinda?
Interpret a quote
The sun goes behind a cloud and I shiver. I should have worn a sweatshirt. The wind rustles dead leaves still clinging to the oak branches by the street. All I can think of is that the rest of the leaves are going to drop and Ill have to keep on rakingI shouldnt have raked anything. Look what I started. (Melinda, page 167 of Speak)
What is Melinda referring to when she talks about raking up dead leaves? Do you agree with her, should she have never started raking up leaves if it seems theyll just continue falling?
Your Task:
Laurie Halse Anderson chose to use the tree as a symbol for Melinda in Speak. Now you will choose a symbol that you feel represents Melinda. You may draw the symbol if you wish, or you can just journal about it. You will use the remaining time in class to create your symbol and describe it in as much detail as possible.