Lessons 22 · 1 lessons · Q. Yo‘ldoshev, B. Qosimov, V. Qodirov, J. Yo‘ldoshbekov. Literature, Grade 7. “Sharq” publishing house, Tashkent, 2017 (revised 4th edition)
22
Symbolic images
Textbook: pp. 129–131
GoalExplain the concept of the symbol and the symbolic images in “Oq kema”.
New words
symbol · ramzemblem, symbolic figure · timsolfigurative meaning · ko‘chma ma’nogoodness · ezgulik
Explanation
The word “ramz” comes from the Greek “symbolon” and once meant a conventional sign by which people recognised one another. In literature a symbol shows an idea that cannot be seen with the eye by means of a familiar thing: for example the fox is a symbol of cunning. In “Oq kema” the Horned Mother Deer is interpreted as a symbol of never-ending goodness, kindness and the people. The fish of the boy’s dream can swim far without stopping, so in his eyes it becomes a sign of freedom and strength. The white ship carries his hope of finding his father and being reunited with his family. A boy who has not had enough love from those close to him creates in imagination what he lacks in life and looks for it in these images.
Worked examples
Example: the lion is a symbol of courage, the ant of hard work: the quality cannot be seen, but is shown through an animal.
Example: in “Oq kema” the ship is not just a vehicle; it is a sign of the boy’s longing for his father and his hope.
Class activity
Choose two more animals or things and say what quality each symbolises.
Practice
1
From which language is the word “ramz”?
From the Greek “symbolon”.
2
What does the Horned Mother Deer symbolise in “Oq kema”?
Goodness, kindness and the people.
3
What does the fish mean to the boy?
Freedom and strength.
4
Why is the white ship a symbol of reunion for the boy?
Because he thinks that if he reaches the ship he will find his father.