Describe how the author uses symbolism to create a more effective narrative in "The Scarlet Ibis."

The symbolism of the scarlet ibis helps to express the delicate and rare nature of Doodle, as well as foreshadow the death of this rare child.

When this exotic bird from strange islands appears, it soon dies; nevertheless,

[E]ven death did not mar its grace, for it lay on the earth like a broken vase of red flowers, and we stood around it, awed by its exotic beauty.

The appearance of the beautiful, but fragile exotic bird certainly presages the events which follow.

After the family eats, the brother takes Doodle to Horse-head Landing in order to continue his rowing lessons; however, Doodle does not have the stamina to succeed. Angered by his failure, the brother walks ahead, hurrying because of the approaching storm. Doodle tries to keep up, but is unable. He cries for his brother to wait for him, but the brother pushes on in his bitterness until he can no longer hear Doodle. Finally, the brother decides to turn back and look for Doodle. He finds him dead, having collapsed into almost the same the position as that of the scarlet ibis. This strange resemblance makes the brother aware of the similarities of the fates of both the delicate exotic bird and the small boy whom he has made the victim of his selfish pride. Holding the delicate Doodle, the brother weeps inconsolably.