Analyze the use of symbolism in D.H. Lawrence's The Rocking-Horse Winner
D.H. Lawrence's short story "The Rocking-Horse
Winner" is a powerful piece of literature that employs symbolism to convey
its themes and messages. Through the use of various symbolic elements, Lawrence
delves into the destructive nature of materialism, the consequences of
neglecting emotional connections, and the idea that luck and wealth do not
necessarily bring happiness. In this essay, we will analyze the use of
symbolism in "The Rocking-Horse Winner" and explore how it enhances
the story's meaning.
One of the central symbols in the story is the rocking-horse
itself. The rocking-horse serves as a metaphor for the unattainable pursuit of
wealth and material possessions. It is described as a "large, wooden
horse" that Paul, the protagonist, becomes obsessed with riding to predict
the winning horse in horse races. The rocking-horse is also portrayed as
possessing a mysterious and supernatural quality, as Paul believes that it can
communicate with him and reveal the names of the winning horses.
Analyze the use of symbolism in D.H. Lawrence's The Rocking-Horse Winner:-The rocking-horse's constant motion and Paul's desperate and
frenzied riding of it symbolize the never-ending pursuit of wealth and success
in a materialistic society. Paul becomes fixated on finding the winning horse,
believing that it is the key to solving his family's financial troubles and
gaining the love and approval of his mother, who is depicted as materialistic
and discontented. The rocking-horse's unending movement represents the
insatiable desire for money and possessions that drives Paul to desperate
measures, as he becomes consumed by the pursuit of wealth at the expense of his
own well-being.
Furthermore, the rocking-horse can also be seen as a
representation of the emptiness and shallowness of material wealth. Despite the
amount of money Paul accumulates through his successful horse-racing
predictions, he is unable to find true happiness or fulfillment. The
rocking-horse's lack of substance and inability to provide any real joy or
satisfaction serves as a critique of the superficiality of materialistic
pursuits. Lawrence suggests that wealth alone cannot fill the void of emotional
and psychological needs, and that the pursuit of material possessions can be a
fruitless endeavor that ultimately leads to disappointment and despair.
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Analyze the use of symbolism in D.H. Lawrence's The Rocking-Horse Winner:-Another significant symbol in the story is the whispering
house, which represents the emotional disconnect and lack of communication
within Paul's family. The house is described as having "a secret of its
own," with "whispers" that can be heard by those who listen
closely. This personification of the house creates a sense of foreboding and
mystery, hinting at the hidden emotional turmoil that exists within the family.
The whispering house also symbolizes the breakdown of
traditional family values and the erosion of genuine human connections. Paul's
mother is depicted as being preoccupied with social status and material wealth,
while his father is distant and passive. The whispering house serves as a
metaphor for the emotional void that exists within the family, as the characters
are unable or unwilling to communicate openly and honestly with each other.
This lack of authentic communication ultimately contributes to Paul's desperate
search for affection and attention through the pursuit of money and luck.
Analyze the use of symbolism in D.H. Lawrence's The Rocking-Horse Winner:-In addition, the names of the horses that Paul predicts are
also symbolic. The name of the winning horse in the first race, "Gibson's
Choice," suggests the idea of making choices based on external factors and
influences, rather than one's own inner desires and values. This is reflective
of Paul's predicament, as he is driven to choose horses based on their names,
rather than following his own intuition or emotions.
Similarly, the name of the winning horse in the final race,
"Malabar," has a symbolic significance. "Malabar" is a
region in India known for its valuable spices, which were highly sought after
in Lawrence's time.
The
Rocking-Horse Winner “Summary”
"The Rocking-Horse Winner" is a short story written
by D.H. Lawrence, first published in 1926. The story revolves around a young
boy named Paul, who lives with his financially troubled family in England. Paul
becomes obsessed with a rocking-horse in his house and discovers that he can
predict the winning horse in horse races by riding it furiously. He becomes determined
to use this ability to bring wealth and happiness to his family, particularly
his mother who is unsatisfied with their financial situation.
Paul's mother, Hester, is depicted as materialistic and
discontented, constantly yearning for more money and social status. She is also
distant from her children, including Paul, as she is consumed by her own
desires. Paul's father is portrayed as passive and ineffective in providing for
his family. Paul's two sisters, Joan and Daffodil, are minor characters in the
story, but they also reflect the emotional disconnection within the family.
Analyze the use of symbolism in D.H. Lawrence's The Rocking-Horse Winner:-As Paul continues to ride the rocking-horse and predict the
winning horses, he amasses a significant amount of money. However, his
obsession with luck and material wealth takes a toll on his health and
well-being. He becomes increasingly withdrawn and secretive, consumed by his
pursuit of money. Despite his efforts, he is unable to satisfy his mother's
insatiable desire for wealth and affection.
Paul eventually falls into a feverish state and is taken to
the hospital, where he is attended by his uncle, Oscar. In his delirium, Paul
reveals to his uncle about his ability to predict the winning horses and his
intentions to use the money to make his mother happy. Paul's uncle is shocked
by the revelation and tries to dissuade Paul from his reckless pursuit of
wealth. He tells Paul that luck is not a reliable source of happiness and that
his mother's materialistic desires are insatiable.
Analyze the use of symbolism in D.H. Lawrence's The Rocking-Horse Winner:-Paul, however, remains determined to win more money and
desperately asks his uncle about the name of the next winning horse. His uncle
reluctantly provides him with the information, and Paul rides his rocking-horse
furiously, urging the horse to reveal the name of the winning horse. In his
frenzy, Paul falls from the rocking-horse and is critically injured.
Paul's condition deteriorates rapidly, and he eventually dies
with a whispered message on his lips - "Malabar." Hester, Paul's
mother, is devastated by his death and realizes the true cost of her materialistic
desires. She is filled with guilt and grief, recognizing that her neglect and
greed have led to the tragic demise of her son.
Analyze the use of symbolism in D.H. Lawrence's The Rocking-Horse Winner:-The story ends with a somber tone, as Hester and her husband
are left to reflect on their son's death and the consequences of their
materialistic lifestyle. The rocking-horse, which had brought temporary wealth
but also immense suffering, is removed from the house, symbolizing the futility
of Paul's pursuit of material possessions.
In summary, "The Rocking-Horse Winner" is a
poignant tale that explores the destructive nature of materialism and the
consequences of neglecting emotional connections. The rocking-horse serves as a
powerful symbol of the unattainable pursuit of wealth and the emptiness of
material possessions. The whispering house symbolizes the breakdown of genuine
communication within the family, and the names of the horses reflect the
characters' motivations and desires. The story ultimately portrays the tragic
consequences of a materialistic mindset and the fleeting nature of luck and
wealth in bringing true happiness.
FAQ.
Q: What is the main theme of "The Rocking-Horse
Winner"?
A: The main theme of "The Rocking-Horse Winner" is
the destructive nature of materialism and the pursuit of wealth. The story
explores how the characters' relentless pursuit of money and material
possessions leads to emotional disconnection, neglect, and tragic consequences.
Q: What is the symbolism of the rocking-horse
in the story?
A: The rocking-horse serves as a powerful symbol in the story. It represents the unattainable pursuit of wealth and material possessions. Paul's obsessive riding of the rocking-horse symbolizes his desperate attempts to gain money and affection from his mother. The rocking-horse also symbolizes the fleeting nature of luck and the false belief that wealth can bring true happiness.
A: The names of the horses in the story have symbolic
significance. The names, such as "Lively Spark,"
"Fledgling," and "Malabar," reflect the characters'
motivations and desires. They represent the materialistic and greedy mindset of
the characters, who see the horses as means to fulfill their financial
aspirations. The names also highlight the fleeting and unpredictable nature of
luck and the reliance on external factors for happiness.
Q:
What is the significance of the names of the horses in the story?
A: The names of the horses in the story have symbolic
significance. The names, such as "Lively Spark,"
"Fledgling," and "Malabar," reflect the characters'
motivations and desires. They represent the materialistic and greedy mindset of
the characters, who see the horses as means to fulfill their financial
aspirations. The names also highlight the fleeting and unpredictable nature of
luck and the reliance on external factors for happiness.
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