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Symbolism In Paul's Case By Willa Cather

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In the short fiction story,“Paul’s Case,” by Willa Cather, vivid symbolism is extensively employed in order to convey the theme that the high life is not one that is easily obtained, or maintained. Cather introduces the main character, Paul, through a physical description that is in great contrast to the lifestyle of his surrounding peers. Living in a traditional, over-fabricated suburb of the industrial, “steel city,” Pittsburgh, he dreams of the shiny, flashy city of New York, and his wardrobe matches, topped with a, “flippantly red carnation flower.” He severely exceeded the “normal” expectations surrounding him, and this troubled the minds of his father, educators, and religious advisors. In the artwork titled, “Defined by Red,” Paul’s
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