Symbolism- "The Chrysanthemums John Steinbecks' "The Chrysanthemums" is a story that utilizes symbolism on many levels. Most of all, I believe in the character of Elisa Adams. Elisa and her garden seem to be considered one. Because of all of her hard labor and love the Chrysanthemums flourish. The Chrysanthemums being a symbol of children that she never had. Also Chrysanthemums are a symbol of death. The pairing of the death association and the symbol of what the Chrysanthemums mean to Elisa is ironic. In modern society Chrysanthemums are generally brought to funerals, but they keep her going.