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The Glass Menagerie is by Tennessee Williams. Williams uses a lot of symbols
in this play. Many of the symbols used in this play try to symbolize some form
of escape or difference between reality and illusion. The first symbol isthe
fire escape. This represents a bridge between the illusory world of the
Wingfields and a world of reality. This bridge seems to be a one way passage.
For Tom, the fire escape is a way out of the world of Amanda and Laura and an
entrance into the world of reality. Laura on the other hand, thinks the fire
escape as a way in but not a way out. This shows Laura fears greatly affect her
physical condition more so than normal people. Another symbol deals more with
Tom than any other character: Tom's habit of always going to the movies to leave
the apartment and head out into the world of reality. A place where one can find
adventure.
But Tom has made steps to escape into reality by transferring the
payment of a light bill to pay for his dues in the Merchant Seamans Union. One
symbol which is rather obvious is Laura's Glass Menagerie. Her collection of
glass reprsents her own world. This is where she sets herself part from reality
and where she can hide and be safe in her own little world. As you can see there
are quite a few symbols in this play. And a number of them have a lot of
meanings. A lot or most of these symbols have a direct meaning in the authors
life. Its understandable sicne this is supposed to be a memory play. Its obvious
to readers that this play is based on the authors own memories
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