Here are some examples of things that could be used as symbols in a story, categorized by type:
People:
* The Orphan: Represents loneliness, isolation, or the search for belonging.
* The Mentor: Symbolizes guidance, wisdom, or support.
* The Villain: Can represent evil, temptation, or the darker aspects of human nature.
* The Trickster: Often symbolizes rebellion, chaos, or the subversion of societal norms.
Places:
* The Forest: Can represent nature, mystery, or the unknown.
* The Desert: Might symbolize isolation, barrenness, or the struggle for survival.
* The City: Can represent progress, opportunity, or the alienation of modern life.
* The Castle: May symbolize power, authority, or the constraints of tradition.
Things:
* The Rose: Often represents love, beauty, or passion.
* The Raven: Might symbolize death, mystery, or the supernatural.
* The Sword: Can symbolize power, conflict, or justice.
* The Mirror: Often represents self-reflection, truth, or hidden desires.
Events:
* The Storm: Can symbolize chaos, upheaval, or emotional turmoil.
* The Journey: Might represent a process of self-discovery, growth, or transformation.
* The Wedding: Can symbolize love, commitment, or the joining of two entities.
* The Death: Often represents endings, transitions, or the inevitability of life's cycle.
Colors:
* Red: Often associated with passion, anger, or danger.
* Blue: May represent calmness, peace, or sadness.
* Green: Can symbolize growth, renewal, or envy.
* Black: Often associated with darkness, mystery, or death.
Numbers:
* Seven: Frequently represents completeness, perfection, or spiritual significance.
* Three: Can symbolize unity, balance, or the sacred.
* Four: Often represents stability, structure, or the four elements.
Other Examples:
* Animal Totems: Certain animals hold cultural and symbolic significance, such as a wolf representing loyalty or a hawk representing vision.
* Mythological Creatures: Creatures like dragons or griffins often represent powerful concepts like strength or courage.
* Musical Instruments: Can symbolize emotions, like a piano representing nostalgia or a drum representing energy.
The key is to choose symbols that resonate with the theme and mood of your story. Consider how the symbol relates to the characters, plot, and overall message you want to convey.