Identify and evaluate the symbolism used in the poem “tattoo” by gregg shapiro and how it relates to the theme of the poem.

The author used simile as a figurative language. Simile is a way to represent the resemblance of the objects using phrases, like as, so, than or like. The lines "Blue as blood", "Protection like acid" and - simile "I wear him like a cloak" are the relevant examples.

"it's more of an essay than story, but perhaps it is best described as a mood-piece: it uses a lot of musical imagery, not to mention sea imagery, religious imagery, and any other imagery that suits his purpose."