The Drummer Boy of Shiloh

In the story "The Drummer Boy of Shiloh" by Ray Bradbury, Joby is a young drummer boy in the army contemplating his importance in the fight. The author uses symbolism to describe changes in the character more deeply.
 
One of the symbols Mr. Bradbury uses most is the peach blossom, which pops up repeatedly throughout the story. I think the peach blossoms symbolize the growth and change in Joby. Peach blossoms grow from an unnoticeable bud into a beautiful flower. In the story, Joby at first thinks he isn't important, but by the end realizes that he is the "heart of the army", the one thing that will keep it alive.

Another symbol that the author uses is Joby's drum. I think the drum symbolizes Joby's mind and thoughts. At the beginning of the story, Joby places the drum on its side, facing him, so that the falling peach blossoms won't hit it. This is a sign of Joby's closed-mindedness. At the end, Joby turns the drum so that it is facing the sky. This shows how his mind has opened to new ideas.

Ray Bradbury's Civil War-era short story is chock-full of interesting symbols. I think these symbols are a good way to enhance a story and make readers think as they take in the information.