Basic Principles of Symbolism

Colors as Symbols

“There are no "good" or "bad" colors. All colors have positive and negative effects depending on context, and evoke responses tempered by the experience of those viewing them. Some of the more common Western cultural responses to colors are outlined in the table below. [Remember,] none of this is clear-cut. Because colors are capable of so much variation, making absolute statements about meaning is impossible. However, understanding some important concepts about color will help us appreciate how varying a color, and combining it with others, can affect its impact. (Nolan)

Color1 / Positive / Negative
White / Clean, innocent, pure / Cold, empty, sterile
Red / Strong, brave, passionate / Dangerous, aggressive, domineering
Yellow / Happy, friendly, optimistic / Cowardly, annoying, brash
Brown / Warm, earthy, mature / Dirty, sad, cheap
Green / Natural, tranquil, relaxing / Jealous, inexperienced, greedy
Blue / Strong, trustworthy, authoritative / Cold, depressing, gloomy
Purple2 / Romance, nostalgia, royalty / Gloom, frustration
Black2 / Power, elegance, formality / Death, evil, mystery
1table from Nolan except 2from “Color Wheel Pro”

Shapes as Symbols

“[There is indeed an] emotional response we have to certain shapes. For instance, compare several circles with a row of acute triangles. Which seems more inviting? Which seems dangerous? Also consider the position or orientation of shapes. For example, a triangle resting on its base is a very stable shape, but inverted it is unstable. Rectangles tipped at an angle become dynamic, suggesting either action or the potential for movement. A large shape leaning toward us can seem very threatening, but two shapes leaning against each other can be stable and even suggest shelter.” (Holocaust Monument) What might a circle mean? Interlocking circles? A ring? A line? A square?

And, of course, there is the hexagram – more commonly known as the Star of David, the primary symbol of Judaism in the world today. Rabbi Shraga Simmons contends that the star symbolizes “God's rule over the universe in all six directions: north, south, east, west, up and down.” Other ideas include the center of the star representing the soul with points emanating out in all directions and the shape as two triangles representing the two sides of our personalities. And, you already know the meaning of the yellow star within the context of the holocaust.

Symbols as Symbols!

Of course, don’t forget the simple symbolism of fire, water, night, fog, rain, blood, light, and so on. Remember, too, the sullen simile and magnificent metaphor, etc. – if you are allowed to use words on this particular assignment. Remember, we’ve discussed all these techniques all year long and the same rules apply – use them well!

Sources

“Color Meaning.” Color Wheel Pro - See Color Theory in Action. March 2005. <http://www.color-wheel-pro.com/color-meaning.html>.

“A Holocaust Monument.” A Teacher’s Guide to the Holocaust. March 2005. Florida Center for Instructional Technology. <http://fcit.coedu.usf.edu/holocaust/activity/912plan/monument.htm>.

Nolan, Katherine. “Color it effective: How color influences the user.” Microsoft Office Online. January 2003. March 2005. <http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/assistance/HA010429371033.aspx.

Simmons, Shraga. “Star of David.” Jewish Literacy. March 2005. aish.com. “http://www.aish.com/literacy/concepts/Star_of_David.asp>.