The bus ride itself is a symbol of desegregation as it was one of the original sites of contested racial policies. ... These images gain importance as symbols and are instrumental in depicting both the social situation and the tension between a mother and son. ... Yet, the symbol that best illustrates the roots of tension between Julian and his mother is the run-down house. ... O"Connor's use of violence was also a portrayal of evil and vice. ...

• Word Count: 1330
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: Undergraduate