Symbolism in "A Rose for Emily" A symbol is a person, object, or event that suggests more than its literal meaning. In William Faulkner's "A Rose for Emily," the symbolism shows more about the character than is detailed by the author. Authors generally use symbolism as a way to represent the intangible qualities of the characters, places, and events in their work. Symbolism helps to indicate several things in a story. In "A Rose for …showed first 75 words of 1857 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1857 total…But also there is Lionel Trilling, who feels the story is just one of "a woman who has killed her lover"(147) and gotten away with it. In any case, "A Rose for Emily" is a timeless story that shows how in time beauty and elegance can become repulsive and distorted through neglect and lack of love. This story is Faulkner's way of paying tribute to Miss Emily Grierson and the sad, lonely life she lead.