Symbolism in A Rose for Emily

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…reject progress and updating, so does Miss Emily, until both of them become decaying symbols of their dying generation. Though descriptions of the house resemble descriptions of Miss Emily Grierson, "A Rose for Emily" emphasizes that beauty and elegance can become distorted through neglect and lack of love and affection. As the house deteriorates for forty years until it becomes ugly and unappealing, Miss Emily's physical appearance and emotional well-being decay in the same way.