Symbolism ("The Devil on the Staircase") Mechanical Songbird

The mechanical bird symbolizes the power that comes with persuasiveness and manipulation through dishonesty. The fact that the bird was given to Quirinus by the devil’s child is explanation signifies the intention for maliciousness. Quirinus’s inability to refuse the gift because of personal interest in the object itself indicates the lack of consideration Quirinus has for others. This lack of consideration allows Quirinus to use the bird for personal gain. His willingness to manipulate others directly translates to his confidence. The bird symbolizes his persuasiveness in convincing others to support rather than condemn him. Others’ willingness to believe in a hero provides him financial and social power. His dishonesty begets more harmful dishonesty, symbolized through the mechanical bird’s reproduction.