The Symbolism of Winter Hibiscus in Saeng's Eyes

What does the winter hibiscus symbolize to Saeng?

When Saeng sees the plant she has been looking for—the winter hibiscus—she feels an intense shock of recognition. It is just like the plants she remembers from her childhood home. At the end of the passage, Saeng feels a sense of connection and is content.

Answer:

The winter hibiscus likely symbolizes resilience and the ability to thrive in challenging conditions to Saeng, similar to the symbolic meanings of plants like plum blossoms in the context of the Four Gentlemen in traditional art.

In the context of the winter hibiscus and its symbolism to Saeng, it's important to consider the broader context of plant symbolism in art. The Four Gentlemen in traditional art represent several virtues. For example, bamboo is linked to integrity and consistency, orchids to loyalty and integrity, plum blossoms symbolize an indomitable spirit as they bloom in the cold of late winter, and chrysanthemums are associated with constancy due to their ability to bloom in late autumn despite frost.

While the winter hibiscus is not directly mentioned among these, the context allows us to infer that, to Saeng, the winter hibiscus could also represent resilience and the ability to thrive under challenging conditions, in parallel to the plum blossoms blooming in the snow.