Many novels have used symbolism to express certain feelings and emotions in an understated way. What is symbolism? “The practice of representing things through symbols or assigning symbolic meanings or significance to objects, events, or relationships” (Dictionary.com). Many authors use the same denotations to illustrate different thoughts or ideas. Mark Twain uses various symbols, such as the river and the earth, to depict freedom and problems in his novel, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Mark Twain's The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn uses various concrete objects, such as rivers, to symbolize a diverse range of feelings, emotions, and even actions. The ultimate symbol of the novel is the Mississippi River. Rivers often symbolize “life itself, they are the flow of the world in manifestation, the macrocosm” (Cooper, 139)” (Protas, Allison). “Fluvial symbolism revolves around moving water” (Fraim, John). “On the river… Huck and Jim witness life and death, tragedy and comedy, conflict and peace” (The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn). In this case, the river served as a mechanism for Huck's developmental maturity. Huck and Jim quickly discover that this is the key to happiness for both of them. They begin to feel a special connection between them, a bit like mismatched friends. They realize that they are starting to rely on each other so much that they will eventually need each other to survive. “The river symbolizes freedom, unlike the restrictions and responsibilities Huck faces on earth” (The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn). "A river can also provide a means of escape from the nation's culture. The Stories of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn use the Mississippi...... middle of paper ......e land " (TK, Angie). After several more damaging adventures, one can easily understand why the earth is such a vicious and unacceptable place for Huck and Jim. In conclusion, it can be seen that Mark Twain uses various symbols to identify emotions in the classic novel, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Although many other authors use symbolism in their personal novels, one can see that Twain's symbolism stands out dramatically. It is not difficult to point out the exceptional symbols that Twain chose to depict in this all-time American favorite. Additionally, as a very accomplished writer, Twain is a role model for many aspiring writers from this classic alone. Many authors have learned and are still learning from this great writer. Although many are not as gifted as Twain in the use of symbolism, they will learn over time; after all, practice makes perfect.