Use of Symbolism in “The Life You Save May Be Your Own” The symbolism that Flannery O’Connor uses in “The Life You Save May Be Your Own,” illustrates the spiritual struggles between good and evil that we as human’s face. The main character, Mr. Shiftlet, embarks on a journey of spiritual means by walking on both the paths of salvation and damnation. Mr. Shiftlet is given countless opportunities to turn himself around and …showed first 75 words of 945 total…

…showed last 75 words of 945 total…Mr. Shiftlet] wished he lived in a desolate place like this where he could see the sun go down every evening like God made it to do." (912-3). Basically there’s a thin line between the roads to damnation and salvation. Each and everyone one of us has crossed that line at one time or another, the question is however, how long you remain on one side and are you doomed to your own destiny?