Describe symbolism in The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton

Throughout the novel, Wharton employs certain images to provide subtle cues to the reader. May's mud-stained and torn wedding dress clearly represents the problems in her marriage to Newland. Anthropological terms such as "clan," "tribe," and "totem" draw parallels between the strictly regimented social system of New York and less formal cultures of the past.

Newland's selection of flowers for May and Ellen provides insight into how he views the two women. To May, he sends pure white lilies-of-the-valley. They represent innocence and simplicity, which are traits he sees in May. On the other hand, he sends intense, fiery-yellow roses to Ellen, which reveals that he sees her as vibrant, sexual, and passionate. When Ellen and Newland are together, the narrator almost always mentions fire. Whether Newland lays his head on the mantle, a log in the fireplace snaps and flares, or memories burn in Newland's heart, the image of fire emphasizes their smoldering passion.