The Vine

The vine symbolizes many things, but most notably the phallus. Because of its long, thin shape and its role in the plot of the poem, it represents the male genitals. It also emphasizes their generative power through the vine's growth in the poem.

Grapes

Grapes symbolize fertility. This symbol has been in frequent use since antiquity, as grapes were a staple crop of early human civilizations.

Limbs

Limbs symbolize the power of movement. The poem discusses Lucia's "long small legs and thighs," which are "surprised" by the tendrils they are enveloped in (5-6). These parts of her body symbolize her physical power to move, which throughout the poem is removed and constrained by the vine.

The Torso

The torso symbolizes the intimate parts of the body. The speaker discusses Lucia's "belly, buttocks, and her waist" (7). These parts of the body do not directly stand in...