The Letter:
* The act of writing itself: John's letters to Savannah act as a way for him to process his emotions, connect with her, and try to preserve their relationship.
* The physical letter: It becomes a tangible representation of their love and their longing for each other. The deterioration of the letter throughout the story could symbolize the gradual fading of their relationship.
The Beach:
* The setting of their romance: The beach provides a serene and isolated space for John and Savannah to fall in love, symbolizing the pureness and beauty of their initial connection.
* The vastness of the ocean: The vastness of the ocean reflects the uncertain and ever-changing nature of life and love, mirroring the challenges they face.
The Army:
* John's commitment: John's duty to the Army represents his responsibility and dedication, often clashing with his desire to be with Savannah.
* The separation: The military's demands on John symbolize the external forces that threaten their relationship, testing their commitment and forcing them apart.
The Dog, "Rambler":
* Loyalty and devotion: Rambler represents unconditional love and loyalty, reflecting John's own deep affection for Savannah.
The Illness:
* Savannah's disease: It becomes a catalyst for change in the story, forcing John to confront the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing loved ones.
Other Symbolic Interpretations:
* The Ring: The engagement ring represents the commitment and future John and Savannah envision together. Its absence later in the story can symbolize the loss of that future.
* The Time Capsule: The time capsule represents the hopes and dreams John and Savannah have for their future.
It's important to note that these interpretations are open to individual analysis. "Dear John" is a story about love, loss, and sacrifice, with its themes resonating with readers in different ways. The "symbols" in the story primarily function as vehicles for conveying the emotional journey of the characters.