One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich

by

Alexander Solzhenitsyn

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One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich Symbols

Shukhov’s Spoon

Shukhov’s spoon symbolizes his unique identity, and simultaneously his dedication to self-preservation, both physically and spiritually. The spoon is one of Shukhov’s only possessions and by far his most beloved. In the gulag, everything including… read analysis of Shukhov’s Spoon

Bread

A Zek’s life revolves around the attainment of bread. In a physical sense, bread is the main source of sustenance for the prisoners, and their skimpy bread rations allow them to survive on a… read analysis of Bread

Tsezar’s Parcel

Tsezar’s parcel symbolizes the worldly pleasures the men are denied within the gulag. Tsezar is the envy of the men of Gang 104, as the contents of his parcels allow him to assuage his hunger… read analysis of Tsezar’s Parcel