Question

What does fire symbolize in the story? In the story "Barn Barning" (1939)

Answer 1

In the story "Barn and Burning"(1939), fire symbolizes furious behaviour of Abner which might cause huge damage.According to story,fire is equal to his behaviour as he has a chance to either increase or decrease the intensity of fire.Usually fire has a power to provide light for people and it also has a power to damage life or belongings of people.It depends on the way it is used.If Abner has an intention to cause damage then he can do it by spreading or increasing the intensity of fire or he can even just take a backstep from being revengeful.Abner has a command over fire as he can either raise or decrease the intensity of fire.Abner is furious and decides to take revenge by using fire to damage barn of Major De Spain.Since Major De Spain is a wealthy person,Abner wanted to damage his wealth.So,he decided to burn the barn which is warehouse of hay and mansion of Major De Spain.Like decreasing or putting off fire, Abner had an option to calm down his fierce behaviour.But as huge fire causes damage,in the same way highly revengeful attitude caused damage to Abner's life and he was killed for his furious behaviour.

Hence,fire is symbolized as a furiousity which might lead to severe consequences if not commanded properly.In the story,it is depicted that,if fire is not commanded according,then it will cost life,property.So,like fire even fury should be treated carefully and wisely.