The Road To Chlifa
Symbolism and Imagery in The Road To Chlifa
In the novella there are many different images and symbols that enhance and represent different aspects of the characters and the conflict within the text.
Both images figurative and are used as metaphor and similes in the text. Symbols are representations of an object or event that relates to a bigger picture or connection. In groups, answer the following questions for each symbol or image:
Identify if the object or event as either a symbol or an image.
Identify and explain its connection to the text (character/archetype, plot or conflict)
Find a quote to support your connection of the symbol/image to the text.
Object/Event
Symbol or Image
Connection to Text
Quote
In the boughs of the Juniper Tree Poem
Symbol/ Image
- The tree is where Maha is buried. It is her final resting place and she finally makes it to Chlifa.
- The words of the song give the reader and understanding of Karim’s overwhelming guilt and the description of the tree gives the reader a sense of peace for Maha.
“It’s a beautiful name. And a beautiful tree […] the murmur of the wind in the juniper tree” (131)
List of 21 Things
Symbol
- Karim’s acceptance of his new life. His adjustment to Montreal is complete.
Page 141
Nada’s Death
Image
- the image of the destruction and horror of war. Destruction of buildings and loss of human life causes Karim to lose a relationship and hope for his future.
“ He turns the corner and comes to a […] He doesn’t want to believe her. He must not believe her. (49)
Journey to Chlifa
Symbol
- The journey is a difficult physically but it also leads to a difficult spiritual journey for Karim.
- Causes Karim to mature and gain a new perspective on life.
- He gains awareness of the suffering of others.
“On Maha’s map nothing looks easier[…] Karim regrets that he isn’t more up to date on the situation. (63)
The Goat
Symbol
- Foreshadows
In the novella there are many different images and symbols that enhance and represent different aspects of the characters and the conflict within the text.
Both images figurative and are used as metaphor and similes in the text. Symbols are representations of an object or event that relates to a bigger picture or connection. In groups, answer the following questions for each symbol or image:
Identify if the object or event as either a symbol or an image.
Identify and explain its connection to the text (character/archetype, plot or conflict)
Find a quote to support your connection of the symbol/image to the text.
Object/Event
Symbol or Image
Connection to Text
Quote
In the boughs of the Juniper Tree Poem
Symbol/ Image
- The tree is where Maha is buried. It is her final resting place and she finally makes it to Chlifa.
- The words of the song give the reader and understanding of Karim’s overwhelming guilt and the description of the tree gives the reader a sense of peace for Maha.
“It’s a beautiful name. And a beautiful tree […] the murmur of the wind in the juniper tree” (131)
List of 21 Things
Symbol
- Karim’s acceptance of his new life. His adjustment to Montreal is complete.
Page 141
Nada’s Death
Image
- the image of the destruction and horror of war. Destruction of buildings and loss of human life causes Karim to lose a relationship and hope for his future.
“ He turns the corner and comes to a […] He doesn’t want to believe her. He must not believe her. (49)
Journey to Chlifa
Symbol
- The journey is a difficult physically but it also leads to a difficult spiritual journey for Karim.
- Causes Karim to mature and gain a new perspective on life.
- He gains awareness of the suffering of others.
“On Maha’s map nothing looks easier[…] Karim regrets that he isn’t more up to date on the situation. (63)
The Goat
Symbol
- Foreshadows