Symbolism in "The Ultimate Safari" - The Importance of the Maintenance of Dignity for Survival Ruby Kay Dalwood 11th Grade

The short story "The Ultimate Safari" by Nadine Gordimer explores the importance in the maintenance of dignity for survival. The narrative follows the journey of a young girl who is forced to flee her country. Shoes are used as a symbol of dignity and hope, symbolism reflects the idea that resilience is crucial in times of desperation; this lesson aids the reader’s understanding of the reality of life for refugees. The narrator’s emotions are often reflected by her relationship with inanimate objects, Gordimer uses shoes as a dynamic symbol of survival.

Shoes are a symbol of pride, the narrator's relationship with these objects mirror her emotions. At the beginning, the grandmother ‘sold her shoes to buy a big plastic container for water.’ (Gordimer 13) Whereas during the falling action the narrator remarks that ‘No other children in the tent have real school shoes. When we three look at them it’s as if we are in a real house again, with no war, no away.’ (Gordimer 20) As an object shoes represent safety and freedom, allowing the owner to travel far without getting hurt, protecting against pain or infection, which was a deadly threat. It is significant that the grandmother sells the shoes just before they begin the long journey...