Bartleby Symbolism

Death is defined as, the termination or extinction of something. Edgar Allen Poe uses symbolism in “The Fall of the House of Usher” in different ways. Poe's intention when writing “The Fall of the House of Usher” was not to present a moral, lesson, or truth to the reader; he was simply trying to bring forth a sense of terror to the reader. Poe's mind works this way, and critics believe this statement, especially when …

…surrounding Bartleby. This story demonstrates that life if not lived is useless, as in the case of Bartleby, who wastes his away “preferring not to.” Although, from the beginning he was isolated behind the green folding screen with nothing but a wall to stare out, he did not have to give up his humanity. However, he chose to, he chose to further isolate himself by his own self-will and accordingly it led to his death. “