A Conversation on Symbolism

My oldest daughter is 17. She thinks her English teacher is full of it when she says there is symbolism in a book.

"Do writers really think of that stuff when they're writing? You're a writer."

"Am I?"

"Yeah. So you should know. Do they?"

"Yes."

"So you mean when you set out to write a book, you really think of symbolism? Give me a break."

"Yes, we do."

"I think English teachers just overanalyze. They have nothing better to do."

"No. Writers really do think about symbolism."

"Fine. What's some symbolism in one of your books that I've read?"

"Well, the garden in Spanish Disco represents Eden, and Maria is Aphrodite."

"WHAT?!?!"

"And Tom is the Christ figure in The Roofer."

"But Tom was an alcoholic."

"But not until after he made the ultimate sacrifice. He was the perfect boy. Think about it. He was perfect, without guile. He was a good boy. Think about it . . . go back and read it."

"Give me another example."

"You just have to pay attention in English class."

"I still think you're full of crap."

"Thanks. Now go clean your room."

So . . . thoughts? How do you weave symbolism in your work?