Symbolism In The Veldt

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Pages: 5

“The Veldt,” “Miriam,” and the Symbolism of Children
“Snips and snails, and puppy dog tails, that’s what little boys are made of. Sugar and spice and all things nice, that’s what little girls are made of.” Children are the epitome of innocence and curiosity. They overflow with courage and imagination, traits that seem to wear off with age. It is alarming when children are represented in ways that do not conform with the iconic images we have of children and childhood in general. Further examination of Ray Bradbury’s “The Veldt,” and Truman Capote’s “Miriam,” introduces the reader to images of horrifying children. These children symbolize rebellion, selfishness, and violence. How can a child, on the one hand, represent blamelessness and unconditional love, while on the other, shock us with their ability to hate and rebel? Discussed below are both stories and some of the complexities, ambiguities, and the dangers of childhood they suggest as well has how the adults in the stories have underestimated these ruthless children.
Generally, the reason behind children’s behavior is often misinterpreted by adults which results in conflict. Many problems arise
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Ten years old is premature for puberty, however, mid-childhood represents a period where kids prefer to be as far away as possible from their parent’s relentless watch and to discover the world on their own terms. “The Veldt” gives a chilling example of how this can go awry. Most kids reach that age and simply want to start picking out their own clothes as a means of expression, others may want a boyfriend and a piercing. Regardless, a “tween’s” desire to separate their identity from their parent’s identity is natural, as opposed to Peter and Wendy’s approach of feeding theirs to the lions, or Miriam’s tactic of moving in with a stranger. All three children are at a confusing age in which parental direction is most