People are often judged based on the physical characteristics of their lives. Whether through appearance or possessions, people desire to communicate an impressive version of themselves to others. In the short story “Paul's Case,” Willa Cather tells the story of a teenager's desire to present himself as upper class. Using the recurring image of red carnations as a symbol of Paul's distorted view of himself to communicate how a materialistic pursuit can create a facade but does not change a person's true identity. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay The symbol of the red carnation first appears as in the short story in the opening scene. At a meeting to discuss his suspension with his instructors, Paul wears the "scandalous red carnation" on his overcoat. Although placed in a situation for which he is supposed to apologize, Paul shows no signs of remorse for his actions; rather, Paul acts condescendingly toward his teachers, communicating "the contempt that [the teacher] all knew he felt for them, and which he apparently made not the slightest effort to hide." In this scene, the red carnation symbolizes Paul's perception of himself. For Paul, his connection to the upper class through his work at Carnegie Hall makes him superior to his peers and authority. This characterizes him as having a superiority complex, as Paul has an exaggerated sense of importance compared to others despite lacking personal wealth or achievements that would place him above others. In an attempt to communicate his superiority, Paul creates a well-dressed and entitled character, intended to deceive others into believing that he is upper class. The red carnation acts as a physical manifestation of its facade. The bright red color of the petals parallels Paul's bold and unapologetic attitude towards a situation intended to make him feel remorseful. The red carnation symbol reappears as Paul explores New York. Responsible for depositing the checks at the bank, Paul takes the opportunity to steal part of the money. Using the money, Paul leaves, planning to spend a week in New York to enjoy the lavish upper-class lifestyle. Walking along Fifth Avenue, Paul notices carnations inside the "flower gardens blooming under windows, against the sides of which snowflakes stick and melt." In this section, the red carnations in the glass are representative of Paul's misperception of his reality. Despite it being winter, the flowers bloom in the snow due to the artificial environment around them. Just like the flowers, Paul's fantasy blossoms, becoming a reality, fulfilling his desires and making him feel like he always belonged; However, Paul does not understand that the status he has acquired will not last because it is the result of the theft of money rather than his prosperity. The money he stole protects him in the same way that the window protects the flowers from winter. It establishes protection against the cold reality of his ordinary life, making him forget that the life he has created will not last forever. This blindness to the truth ultimately fuels his superiority complex, as he uses money to materialize his superiority. The description of the red carnation changes after Paul learns that others know he stole the money. Learning that Paul's father has repaid the stolen money and is heading to New York to take him home, his trip to New York ends. While walking through the fields, Paul pondered the news, falling into a.