Symbols in the Story of A Dill Pickle

Katherine Mansfield’s short story A Dill Pickle is rich with symbolism, reflecting the emotions and memories between the two former lovers who reunite after six years. Here are some key symbols in the story and their possible interpretations:

1. Paper Daffodils on the Table

Daffodils often symbolize new beginnings; in the story, they are placed on the table where the man is sitting. This could represent the man’s new life after being abandoned by Vera years ago. The artificial nature of the daffodils might also suggest that his new life lacks authenticity or emotional depth.

2. Flowers in Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens is where they had their first afternoon meeting, and both characters recall different emotions attached to this place. While Vera remembers the pain and disappointment from their past, the man recalls only their conversation about flowers. This contrast in their recollections highlights their emotional incompatibility and uneven feelings towards each other.

3. His Peeling the Orange

Vera immediately recognizes him by the way he peels an orange, showing that she still remembers small details about their past relationship. Oranges often symbolize new beginnings and independence. This could indicate that while Vera recalls their shared past, she is also aware of her personal growth and independence from him.

4. The Boatman’s Song

Vera used to play this song on the piano, but she no longer does. The fact that even "a selfish man" remembers this detail suggests that the song held special meaning in their relationship. Vera’s disconnection from the song reflects how their relationship has lost its value over time.

5. A Dill Pickle

The title itself serves as a metaphor for their relationship. A dill pickle has a sour and bitter taste, much like their interaction in the story. It represents the unpleasant and disappointing nature of their past romance.

6. Caviar

Caviar symbolizes their financial differences in the past. It is associated with luxury, possibly referencing how money played a role in their relationship and how it created distance between them.

7. The Piano

The piano represents Vera’s artistic nature. She is a character with artistic sensibilities, and her disconnection from music suggests a change in her identity or emotions over time.

8. Her Gloves

When Vera decides to leave, the unnamed man keeps her gloves. This act symbolizes his lingering feelings and his desire to reconnect with her despite the emotional distance between them.

Mansfield’s use of these symbols adds depth to the story, illustrating the complexities of memory, emotions, and missed connections in human relationships.