Symbolism Research

I researched the symbolism of hands and colours, two symbols which commonly reappeared in the animations. From the secondary research, it became clearer the ways these animators subversively tried to paint a true picture of the situation in the Soviet Union at the time. Symbolism made this narration possible.

Positive Depiction of Hands 

• Generosity, protection, greeting, swearing honesty

Negative Depiction of Hands

• Weapon, arresting/trapping, saluting, demanding

I found this symbolism extends deeper, with the left and right hand holding separate qualities.

Right Hand

• Strength, power, rationality, logic, aggressive, good

Left Hand

• Weakness, death, decay, evil

Colours

The main colours used in the animations I watched includes black, grey, dark blue, contrasted with the subversive use of white and red. 

Black - power, formality, death, evil. Yet acts as a protective barrier.

Grey - emotionless, conservative, depression. Yet carries some goodness (from white).

Dark Green - ambition, greed, jealousy, money. Yet contributes to society.

Dark Blue - power, seriousness, repression, emotionless. Yet cool and collected.

White - purity, goodness, innocence. Yet symbolises surrender.

Red - energy, war, danger, power, desire. Yet indicates violence.