Authors use figurative language to express nuanced ideas, ones that beg for literal description. Such language gives the author the opportunity to play with the imagination and senses of his reader. A piece of literature that uses figurative language is more intriguing and engaging than one that only aims to explain. Ralph Ellison's use of figurative language in "The Battle Royal" depicts a powerful and unique story of oppression and the struggle for self-discovery. His juxtaposition of literal and figurative language gave the story a dreamlike quality, while creating a deep and vivid image. Symbolism was one of the most common and effective figurative languages ​​used in the novel. Symbolism gave Ellison the freedom to add two levels of meaning to his work: a simple literal level and a symbolic level whose meaning was much deeper than the literal meaning. For example, the quote “living with your head in the lion’s mouth” is a symbol. Although one might not notice the symbol, the lion symbolizes wealthy white supremacists and the head symbolizes black people. However, the interpretation of a symbol differs from one individual to another, depending on understanding or familiarity of the context. The theme of this story, which was blindness, identity, and supremacy, was greatly emphasized by Ellison's use of figurative language, particularly symbols. In the story, Ralph Ellison uses the headband as a symbol of oppression as well as the black people's struggle for equality and as an ironic symbol of individuality and insight. In the story, Ellison uses the blindfold as a symbol of oppression. Before the start of the fight, the blacks were forced to wear a blindfold. Even though it was against their will, they still did it... middle of paper ....... In his life, the restrictions imposed by the whites did not prevent or discourage him to pursue his dream, which made him unique and exceptional. He was able to think for himself, even though white people tried to “guide” him like other black people. Throughout the novel, Ralph Ellison used symbols to tell his story in a powerful and vivid way. He managed to literally use devices that engaged and entertained his audience. The headband was a symbol of oppression as well as black people's struggle for equality and an ironic symbol of individuality and insight. Overall, the novel was able to convey an important message about the struggle of societies for domination, on the one hand; and a way to free himself from such brutal treatment. It clearly showed this respect for each other; and one's identity is the only way to resolve conflicts and live in peace.