Symbolism (and the other adornments, too) does serve a useful purpose, though – it’s more than just chrome on the grille. It can serve as a focusing device for both you and your reader, helping to create a more unified and pleasing work. I think that, when you read your manuscript over (and when you talk it over), you’ll see if symbolism, or the potential for it, exists. If it doesn’t, leave well enough alone. If it does, however – if it’s clearly a part of the fossil you’re working to unearth – go for it. Enhance it. You’re a monkey if you don’t.
