Page 7 - Black Book Assignment

Reflection 1:

Symbolic Interactionism is a theory constructed by George Herbert Mead. Symbolic
Interactionism is a micro level theory based on how society views an individual, and how

individuals perceive themselves. This is also known as the “Looking Glass-Self” theory. This
theory relates to the first artifact which is a pencil drawing of an individual portraying a feeling

of loneliness, determining that there is no purpose in life.

It can be considered that the feelings and gloominess in this drawing can be viewed as

symbolism. Despite of having a brighter world in proximity, the strong emotional disengagement

is stranding the individual from feeling the positive presence of his surroundings. This is holding
the individual back from exploring the world and living life to the fullest. This results in

disassociation, which makes the individual feel like there is not much of a purpose to life. The
individual’s isolation is presented in black and white and not in color, in contrast to his

surroundings. This method is used to emphasize emotional decay and ruin the character is facing.
The colourful kaleidoscopic view outside his window represents the different aspects of life. The

sheer contrast in colours is used to represent a theatrical mood to establish a point of interest.

Furthermore, the casting looks of the individual portrays the excess in emotions because of the
disconnected feelings. The kaleidoscopic view presents the existence of a purposeful life filled

with hope which is right there waiting for him to view it from a positive lens. The “Swallow”
bird at the top of the page is a historic symbol for hope which is what the pictured individual

needs to understand his purpose in life.

Reading this reflection regarding this hand drawn image, it can be considered that

individuals may feel disengaged within their surroundings if they do not see a means to life. Not
only that, but no matter how joyous, how wonderful or adventurous your surroundings may be,

an individual will not enjoy that environment if they are feeling gloomy and low of themselves.

This drawing is a visual representation of how a colourful environment may still make an
individual feel like they live in a black and white world.