Symbols and Their Limits

After the latest terror attacks in Paris, a hashtag arose: “#PrayForParis.” A symbol arose, too. Designed by Jean Jullien, a French illustrator, it was a peace sign with the Eiffel Tower in the middle. Like “#PrayForParis,” it was tweeted around the world.

Symbols have their place, of course, and they can serve many purposes: to console, recall, stir, etc. But sometimes they can seem awfully weak, even escapist.