The use of symbolism has always been a prevalent way for writers to communicate important issues to the public. It is not uncommon to read a simple children's story and discover underlying political or moral messages, for example, Horatio Alger's novel Ragged Dick. This story was written after the Civil War, when America experienced a period of huge industrial growth. The capitalistic work ethic had become a universal idea in the North, and in response the Government agreed to stay out of business affairs, following the industrial policy of "laissez-faire." This widened the gap between the rich and the poor, making it difficult for a less fortunate individual to work his way up in society. Many Americans, however, believed that it was definitely not impossible to become successful in life. Horatio Alger's character, Ragged Dick, is a young boot-black who works his way up in society to become a respectable gentleman. Through symbolism, Alger uses several material objects to reveal Dick's transformation into a successful young man.
             Dick's new suit is one example of symbolism that Alger uses. It is introduced when Dick offers to be a city guide to young Frank Whitney. The Whitney family is very kind to Dick and they take him into their home to prepare him for a day as Frank's tour guide. After a bath, Dick is given a suit that had once belonged to Frank. The suit was Dick's very first gift and it made him look so different that it was "difficult to imagine that he is the same boy." The Whitney's' intervention gave Dick the ability to be more than a simple boot-black. Since he now looked like a young gentleman's son, Dick received respect and was soon unwilling to wear his old clothes which were ragged, dirty, and ill fitting. Frank Whitney inspired Dick to quit squandering his money and begin saving. Dick said that he means to "turn over a new leaf." Frank assured him that through honest, hard work, education, and pe...