Edward: Symbolism

The symbolism in the poem Edward was interesting. This poem itself seemed oddly structured to me. Some of the content was even more confusing. The speaker first says that he killed his hawk and steed before he finally admits to killing his father. This creates a connection between the animals and the boy's father. They are a symbol for him. A bird of prey and spirited horse are not very similar. However, they both allude to characteristics that perhaps the father had. I think that these symbols showed that he was strong and stubborn. He could be a bit frightening and overbearing. These symbols are very affective.