How does the author use symbolism in the novel, The Topeka School?

In the novel, the author uses speech and debate competitions to symbolize the use of language for domination rather than constructive communication. When the story illustrates speech and debate competitions, it highlights strategies such as ‘the spread,’ which are designed to win technical victories rather than engage in meaningful debate and communication. The novel portrays such dynamics as dangerous to constrictive forms of real-life debate and communication.