what are 'symbols' in a poem?What are the functions of symbolism in poetry?​

Symbols represent a meaning other than the literary meaning of words or phrases. Symbols are used in poetry to add different dimensions of meaning, create images and evoke emotions, Symbols need to be inferred based on the cultural background of the poet/people or society he is talking about. Symbols create powerful images in the reader's mind. For example: the colour black is often used to represent death, red stands for blood, rainbows symbolise hope, etc.