The Symbolism Of Stephen Crane's The Missing Arm

The wounded arm, symbol of the lieutenant’s separation from his essential self and his troops in wartime, is emblematized in civilian life by the empty sleeve, marking him as less than a complete human being. Both symbols also denote the end of the man’s illusion—that the temporary arm of authority he once possessed was real, that he was in control of action and choice. The final picture Crane paints of the lieutenant finds this stammering veteran shamefaced, perhaps at what he now recognizes as his sin of pride in even momentarily believing he had the ability to fashion life. The missing arm is now a permanent reminder of his, and humankind’s,
impotence.