In Salman the Solitary, Yashar Kemal uses several symbols to embody the reality and life of his characters. Throughout the story there are several references made to nature, and one particular motif in this pattern is the symbolic suggestion of birds.

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                Dhindsa

Ranjit Dhindsa

Dr. Tharaud

ENG 220

17 February 2003

The Symbolic Significance of Birds in Salman the Solitary

All throughout literary history, symbolism has been an essential aspect to any good piece of literature. It is through symbolism that we can represent our complex nature, environment, and metaphysics. In the novel Salman the Solitary, Yashar Kemal uses several symbols to embody the reality and life of his characters. Throughout the story there are several references made to nature, and one particular motif in this pattern is the symbolic suggestion of birds. The symbol of birds plays a significant role in complementing Kemal’s characters. For example, Salman’s interactions with these creatures have opened up windows into his emotional and violent nature. In contrast, Mustafa’s relationship with birds shows a softer and more compassionate quality, which can be seen in his adoration for kingfishers. Symbolism is subject to a myriad of interpretations, and it this attribute that fits ideologies, opinions, and thoughts of many different people.

        Salman is a very complex character who is slowly unraveled throughout the course of the novel. He is introduced as a mysterious bodyguard covered in weaponry, and remains very aloof and silent; it is this silence that strikes fear in the local children’s hearts, especially Mustafa’s. However Salman was not always like this, his degradation towards this state began as joyful little boy filled with unlimited love for his step father Ismail Agha. Salman was the apple of Ismail Agha’s eye, and center of his love and affection, but after Mustafa’s birth, Salman began to endure the worst form of abuse a child can receive: neglect. This abandonment of Salman can be seen in the following excerpt:  

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For his newborn son Ismail Agha’s adoration knew no bounds. He could hardly take his eyes off him…Nobody paid attention to Salman any more. It was as though he did not exist. This was not all intentional, just that the family had eyes for no one but Mustafa (Kemal 110).

As Salman was adjusting to his solitary and introverted position in the house his nature began to change as well. He was in a state of confusion and tried desperately to become a part of the family again. His efforts to embrace Mustafa as a brother, and failed attempts to ...

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