in literature occurs when a person, place, or thing is used to represent an abstract idea or concept. Symbols make what is usually abstract into something concrete. A dove, for example, is a common symbol for the concept of peace, which is an abstract idea.

Symbolism

Explanation:

In literature, the use of a person, place, or object to represent or signify an abstract idea by making their meanings different from their original literal meaning is symbolism. In symbolism, a person, place, or thing doesn't necessarily have to be attached to a single meaning. Symbols are used in our everyday life, for example, some sports teams name themselves after animals just to make their name fearsome.

A dove is a common symbol used as a concept for peace, it is also used to end conflict. Ordinarily a dove is supposed to be white bird, but the use of symbolism has given a dove another literal meaning, which makes us see a dove as a sign of peace and tranquility.

in the sonnet 116 written by william shakespeare we can analyze the symbolism and say that he reuses the idea of love like a guiding star for the sailor.

reading through the poem we find out that in the line 7 there is a metaphor for the lover that is heading through the life events by love itself .