Color as a Tool for Symbolism in Heart of DarknessColor is used very effectively as a tool for symbolism in Heart of Darkness. Colors, notably black and white, are used to symbolize evil (black) and good (white). Other colors are also used, although less often than black and white. Throughout history, people are thought to have a white soul or a black soul based on their innate "goodness" or "badness" or the role they play at that time. The color of a person's soul often contrasts with the color of their skin. A person with a black soul and white skin is considered bad and dishonest. “I met a white man in such an elegant and unexpected outfit…” (Conrad p.21). This shows how a white man is not expected to be a good person. The sartorial elegance was unexpected because the man was white. In comparison, a person with a white soul and black skin is considered truthful and full of integrity. “An athletic black man from a coastal tribe and educated by my poor predecessor…thought everything to himself.” (Conrad p.45). People are portrayed as black and hateful, regardless of the color of their skin. This is further proof that black is used as a synonym for evil. Black isn't just used to describe bad guys. “Often far away, I thought of these two, guarding the gate of Darkness, knitting black wool as for a warm coat…” (Conrad p. 14.) The symbolism of the black wool at the gate of Darkness points clearly towards evil, and further supports black as evil. Heath 2 Colors other than black and white are used to describe moods and attitudes beyond basic right and wrong. Red means industry. “There was a large amount of red – it’s nice to see at any time because you know there’s real work being done in there.” (Conrad p.13). Yellow is considered a loose color. “I was going to wear yellow. Death in the center. (Conrad p.13). Pale denotes death. It is also used this way in the Bible, "the pale horse and its rider death", Revelation 6:8. "She came forward, all in black, with pale head, floating towards me in the twilight. She was in mourning. It had been more than a year since his death…” (Conrad p. 72-73). The use of color is effective in the story for a variety of reasons. First, it is easy to understand.