What Does Water Symbolize In A Perfect Day For Bananafish

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Salinger’s choice of color use is also a way he used symbolism to further develop the short story. The scene with Sybil and Seymour takes place by the blue ocean because “It is the sea of innocence, where Seymour belongs instead of the corrupt hotel room” (“A Perfect Day for Bananafish”). The symbolism of water has the universal meaning of “purity”, and “the color blue symbolizes truth and innocence” (Parker). Salinger has Seymour reside by the blue ocean because of its symbolic meaning rather than the corrupt hotel room that “smelled of new calfskin luggage and nail-lacquer remover” (Salinger). It can be determined that Seymour yearns for the innocence those around him lack. “Sybil," he said, "you're looking fine. It's good to see you. Tell