Reading The Scarlet Ibis
Submitted By: Karen P.
Link: The Scarlet Ibis
I’m here to share with you a great story, a staple in the education of many. This particular short story resonates in the heart of one of our chief editors. To those who did not read the book yet, I do encourage you to read the short story and come back to read this student’s perspective.
The reason “The Scarlet Ibis” is so memorable is because it is an emotional story that moves readers and shows the dark side of reality, human nature, and the unfairness of life. One example is when the brother abandons Doodle. Another example is when the scarlet ibis and Doodle dies alone to no fault of their own. Readers may not be able to directly relate to the story, but may feel the emotional intensity and sorrow due to the events or the characters. The story’s reality allows readers be able to relate to it, whereas if it was unrealistic, readers might not feel as much emotion.
The story’s symbol, the scarlet ibis, represents dying alone, far away from home. The scarlet ibis is a tropical bird, and it is alone when dying in Doodle and his brother’s home. Doodle is abandoned by his cruel and frustrated brother because he is incapable of mastering certain physical activities due to his weak body. When his brother is running away, readers can assume that Doodle ran along and probably died by tripping on a stone. Doodle’s dying moment was like the scarlet ibis’, alone and abandoned in an unknown place without friends or family.
