A Rose For Emily: Symbolism Authors traditionally use symbolism as a way to represent the sometimes-intangible qualities of the characters, places and events in their work. In the short story, “A Rose For Emily”, William Faulkner uses symbolic elements to define and characterize Miss Emily Grierson. Faulkner uses symbolism to compare the Grierson house with Emily’s life. This is emphasized throughout by the symbolism of the decaying house, which parallels Miss Emily’s physical deterioration and demonstrates her mental disintegration. Emily’s life, like the house, which decays around her, suffers from lack of genuine love and care. The eternal characteristics of Miss Emily’s h