Floral symbolism in Gibran Khalil Gibran’s novella “The Broken Wings”

the article explores the symbolism of flowers in the novella “The Broken Wings” by Gibran Khalil Gibran, a representative of the Syro-American literary school. The work belongs to the early period of the writer’s creativity and contains autobiographical elements reflecting his time in his homeland. The novella depicts the problems of Lebanon “stuck in the Middle Ages,” including vestiges of the past, social injustice, the arbitrariness of the rich, the hypocrisy of the clergy, and the impoverished existence of the people. Through symbolism, the essence of these social contradictions and the complex nature of social upheavals are revealed. The writer’s inclination toward multi-layered imagery, stemming from his affinity with neo-Sufism, is emphasized. Special attention is given to the symbolism of the lily, which demonstrates multiple interpretations. The transformation of other floral images in the novella is also of interest. Flowers reveal the inner emotional state of the characters, particularly when they are presented in contrasting comparison. The symbolic level embodies the idea of the characters’ maturation, their struggle, and liberation from cruel social laws. Floral imagery is active only in relation to young people in love. The older generation, characterized by nobility of thought and action, is represented through the symbolism of the tree “laden with autumn fruits,” symbolizing experience, wisdom, and knowledge of life.

modern Arabic literature, Syro-American literary school, Lebanon, Gibran Khalil Gibran, novella, floral symbolism, imagery, characters