On Symbolic Image Of Aytmatov's Novel

Aytmatov, a Kirghizian writer, has accomplished a large number of novels since he started writing in 1950s. White Ship being the boundary line, his writing style can be divided into two distinct periods. Ever since White Ship, Aytmatov, like many traditional Russian writers, has turned to mythology and religious stories to better present his reflection on life and humanity. In order to achieve a strong effect of alarm, he reformed mythology and legend and then incorporated them into his works intentionally, unveiled their implications and initial meanings, and brought inspiration from their historical and artistic essence to modern art.Animal, water and cross as prototype images have appeared one after another in Aytmatov's later writings. These symbolic images have attributed to the characteristic mythology in his novels. With the aid of their symbolic meanings, the writer enriched his reflection of real life and projected his recognition of life's philosophy. The creation of animal image showed the writer's speculation of the relationship of mankind and nature, mankind and history, the water image represented his discrimination of life and death, and the cross image displayed his thinking about the degeneration and perfection of humanity. These symbolic images were wildly used in his works, reflecting his interest in humanity and his persistent discussion of good and evil. As a way to amplify and annotate the reality, these symbolic images have also bestowed a richer and more profound humanitarian meaning on his writings.