Symbolism

Symbolism is when an author uses something, such as a rose, to signify some idea. A rose, for example, could signify love or Beauty. An action, person, place, word, or object can all have a symbolic meaning. When an author wants to suggest a certain mood or emotion, he can also use symbolism to hint at it, rather than just blatantly saying it.

Importance
In literature, symbolism is used to provide meaning to the writing beyond what is actually being described. The plot and action that take place in a story can be thought of as one level, while the symbolism of certain things in the writing act on another level to enhance the story.

Meaning
The meaning of a piece of literature resides in the reader's freedom to respond. Discussion of literature assumes a community of those discussing the poem, novel, essay, story or whatever. For a reader's response to be more than idiosyncratic, the reader must engage in dialogue with other readers of that piece of literature. The dialogue may be face to face, it may be electronic, or it may be in print. For a reader's understanding of a piece of literature to succeed, it must survive in the continuing dialogue of readers.