15 BEST Books With Symbolism [Best Reads 2022]

There are so many great books with symbolism to read that it can be hard to know where to start. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite books with deep and powerful meanings waiting to be discovered.

When it comes to reading, nothing is more fulfilling than diving into a great book with symbolism. These novels are filled with meaning and depth, often requiring multiple readings to uncover all of the hidden secrets.

If you’re looking for a new challenge or want to expand your reading list, check out these 15 best books with symbolism. You won’t regret it.

15 Books With Symbolism

Books with symbolism can be some of the most interesting and thought-provoking reads out there. Symbolism is often used to add depth and meaning to a story, and can even be used to help readers interpret the events that are taking place.

If you’re looking for a book that will make you think, then check out our list of the 15 best books with symbolism.

1. The Book of Celtic Symbols by Joules Taylor

In this book, the author Joules Taylor explores ancient Celtic symbols and their meanings. For example, she talks about a wheel of life that was often seen in Druidic artwork or how mistletoe became associated with death during Christmas time.

Because it grew on trees around homes where people would gather to share food and stories while exchanging gifts under one condition – if you incurred an injury without being able to do so then someone else could use your sacred tool (mistletoe) against healing yourself!

The legend behind the Ogham writing system also gets some attention as well- each letter represents both sounds like the English language but also actions such

2. A Dictionary of Literary Symbols by Michael Ferber

This highly unique dictionary of symbols is unlike any other book you have read before. While most symbolism dictionaries draw their inspiration from religion, art, and myth to name a few sources; this particular one relies on what could be called “literary magic.”

The entries discuss commonly occurring imagery in literature- such as swans or goats for instance – but they also contain cross-references between different works by the same author which might offer more insight into how these elements were used symbolically throughout his/her entire career!

3. A Dictionary of Symbols: Revised and Expanded Edition by Juan Eduardo Cirlot

This book is a must-have for anyone who wants to understand the way that symbols are used in everyday life. A Dictionary of Symbols by Juan Eduardo Cirlot provides valuable insight into various cultures, religions, and mythologies from all over history–and it’s now available through New York Review Books!

The editor overseeing this project notes: “Cversible” because there aren’t any straightforward answers or explanations about what these strange markings mean; they’re more like windows onto other worlds which can be viewed individually when you read each entry slowly enough (but see if your friends don’t want to start asking you about them after they’ve picked up the book and thumbed through it).

This is the perfect book for anyone who loves symbols and wants to learn more about their hidden meanings.

With over 1,000 entries, this dictionary is a comprehensive resource that covers a wide range of topics, from alchemy to zodiac signs. Whether you’re a student of history or just someone who’s curious about the world around them, this book is sure to satisfy your thirst for knowledge.

4. The Element Encyclopedia of Secret Signs & Symbols by Adele Nozedar

The Element Encyclopedia of Secret Signs and Symbols is a must-have for anyone who wants to understand the hidden language that runs throughout history. This book contains thousands upon generations’ worth of symbols from all over–in simple “A-Z” order!–with Adele Nozedar’s expertise guiding you through its pages like never before.

You’ll learn about fauna (including animal husbandry), flora, numbers/ counting techniques; sacred sounds such as music theory or sound healing; secret signs used by various groups including Masonry, Wicca, and Theosophy; as well as a wide range of symbols from tarot cards to elements in alchemy.

Whether you’re looking for answers to life’s big questions or just want to be able to interpret the world around you with greater depth, The Element Encyclopedia of Secret Signs and Symbols is the perfect resource.

5. Illustrated Dictionary of Symbols in Eastern and Western Art by James Hall

The greatest treasure trove of information on symbols in art history is found within James Hall’s masterful text, The Illustrated Dictionary Of Symbols. This comprehensive dictionary offers detailed descriptions and meanings for any symbol that may be encountered from ancient Near Eastern artifacts to modern-day Western abstract signs; it also covers animals as well as many other categories such as cultural items like logos or popular songs with catchy phrases attached (think: “I’m too excited”).

Not only does this book give you an inside look at what these strange images really mean but walks readers through their evolution over time by discussing where they first appeared–whether we know exactly who created them or not.

In addition to being a great resource for academics, this book is also perfect for anyone who appreciates art and wants to learn more about the stories behind some of the most iconic images in history. It’s sure to become a go-to desktop reference for years to come.

6. A Little Bit of Symbols by Henry Reed

Henry Reed’s “A Little Bit of Symbols” is an affordable and accessible book that takes the reader beyond just listing symbols with their meanings. The 128 pages are packed full, as it offers more than a simple definition–the author explores theories behind them while giving examples from art history to illustrate how they’re used subconsciously by artists or writers alike. It’s a fascinating read that left me eager to learn more about the world of symbols.

Whether you’re looking to brush up on your knowledge of symbolism or want to expand your understanding, “A Little Bit of Symbols” is an excellent resource.

Reed’s approachable writing style makes complex topics digestible, and his passion for the subject is evident on every page. I highly recommend this book to anyone with an interest in art, literature, or history.

7. Magical Symbols and Alphabets by Sandra Kynes

Sandra Kynes’ Magical Symbols and Alphabets is a must-have for any pagan. This book will teach you how to incorporate symbols in your witchcraft practice, such as Wiccan or neoPagan rituals and practices with constellations; astrological icons like runes (check out this blog’s guide on the best books about them), and magical alphabets that are used for spellcasting–a great source of power if harnessed correctly.

There is a section on each individual symbol, what it means and how to use it. The author also includes tips on how to create your own personal sigil.

This book is perfect for anyone starting out in the magical arts, as well as those who are looking to add more depth and meaning to their practice. With clear instructions and beautiful illustrations, Sandra Kynes has created a comprehensive guide that will be referenced again and again.

8. Man and His Symbols by Carl Jung

If you’re looking for a book that will help to understand the depth of symbols, then look no further than psychologist Carl Jung’s Man and His Symbols. This groundbreaking study focuses on how our unconscious connects with archetypal images through dreams – which makes it one of those books perfect if your interest lies in dream interpretation or religious studies.

In addition, there are plenty of examples from art history–including photographs illustrative imagery pieces as well as other sources such Fairy Tails…the list goes on really. If you are a student of psychology, mythology, or art, then you’ll find this book will greatly expand your horizons.

Jung believed that understanding the symbolism in our dreams could help us to get in touch with our true selves, and become more balanced and whole people.

9. Peace: The Biography of a Symbol by Ken Kolsbun

Peace: The Biography of a Symbol is an engrossing deep dive into one symbol that has lessons for symbolism in general. You’ll learn about the height of its dominance as well as when it was first adopted by young people around society, who then recycled this iconic sign back into what we know today – meaningless pieces marketed at profit margins higher than ever before.

It’s all well and good to talk through brief entries within dictionaries or books like this but sometimes exploring iconic symbols can offer some valuable insight beyond just explaining their common properties among other things alike.

Whether you want to better understand the psychology behind why symbols are important to us, or simply want to know more about this one, in particular, Peace: The Biography of a Symbol is a fascinating read.

10. The Penguin Dictionary of Symbols by Jean Chevalier and Alain Gheerbrant

The Penguin Dictionary of Symbols is a leading symbol dictionary that ranks among the best books on symbols and their meanings. You’ll find entries covering just about every letter you can imagine, including ones like “abyss,” acrobat,” and even Adam.

At over 1K pages long this compact yet comprehensive work may very well be your go-to resource for understanding what all these crazy people are talking about when they mention something being “of shreds.”

11. Sacred Geometry and Magical Symbols by Iva Kenaz

The author of this book, Iva Kenaz shows how we can incorporate special symbols into our everyday lives in magical ways. These are some of the most interesting triangles and circles you will ever come across.

For example, The mandola (a representational shape) is Used as a meditation aid because its three layers mimic spiritual development; Square/Cross represents a merger between matter & spirit while the Tree Of Life brings together death & rebirth.

The book is beautifully illustrated with easy-to-follow instructions. It includes a how-to guide for each symbol as well as information on the history and mythology behind them. Whether you are looking for a way to add more magic to your life or simply want to learn about some fascinating symbols, this book is sure to delight you.

12. Signs and Symbols by DK and Miranda Bruce-Mitford

Signs and symbols are deals with the hidden meanings behind everyday objects, animals, or natural elements. This book offers over 2k entries to help you decipher what these strange markings might be telling your fortune.

13. Signs and Symbols of the World by D. R. McElroy

The author of this book, D.R., has done an incredible job at capturing the many different symbols that are out there and their meanings! I really enjoyed reading through it because not only did they provide information on what each symbol means but also where you can find more details about these interesting items too like alchemy or chemistry ( Interested yet?).

This dictionary will leave readers with a deeper understanding of how people use the imagery in everyday life as well as gives them access to 1,001 new terms to learn including those related specifically t
A great way for us all – regardless of our interests lie within politics & gestures; currency design elements such Ω-to better understand one another is by studying crucial phrases which have been encrypted using Iconic

14. Symbols of the Occult by Eric Chaline

There are many books about symbols and the meanings behind them. Some of my favorites, like Eric Chaline’s Symbols Of The Occult: A Compilation Of Magical Signs arranged by their corresponding astrological signs or natural wonders such as mountains with insights into what they represent can be found in this title for those looking to learn more from around 200 different cultures across all eras.

15. The Woman’s Dictionary of Symbols and Sacred Objects by Barbara G. Walker

The Woman’s Dictionary of Symbols and Sacred Objects is a book that explores the vast array of symbols from nature, and religious deities in addition to woman-related imagery.

This Feminine guide offers an undeniable approach to how these different types can be used as tools for self-expression through its many definitions given with each symbol’s detailed explanation coupled with personal stories told by Barbara G Walker herself about where she discovered this particular significance behind certain tokens which made them so meaningful within her life experience.

The author writes with such eloquence, it’s as if she is having a conversation with the reader providing a very intimate experience. She also goes to great lengths about the history and mythology behind each icon which I found to be incredibly fascinating.

Conclusion

There are many great books that make use of symbolism. Whether it be to add more depth and layers to the story or to create a specific mood, symbolism can be a powerful tool for writers. We’ve listed 15 of our favorite books with symbolism above.

Kristen Stanton

Hi, I am Kristen I have a (BS) (BA) in Psychology, and i understand symbolism and the meanings of all objects. I have always been interested in the hidden meanings behind things, and how to use them to create a better world. As a child, I loved spending time in nature, discovering all the secrets the trees, plants, and objects had to offer. Now an adult, I continues to be fascinated by symbolism and its power to change lives. I am committed to using my knowledge for good, and hopes to help people connect with their own inner power through symbolism.

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