Final answer:
Rudy and Liesel's actions of 'polishing their wicked ways' symbolize mischief and revolt against struggles, with the triumph in gaining mixed candy reflecting a small, yet significant, victory that holds symbolic power and provides a sensory appeal for the reader.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of literature, characters like Rudy and Liesel displaying that they are "polishing their wicked ways" often signifies a playful or mischievous streak in their development. Their actions can be seen as a form of rebellion or coping mechanism to contend with the difficult circumstances they find themselves in. The attainment of the mixed candy can be interpreted as a small victory against the adversities they face, for candy often symbolizes a treat or reward, making their achievement feel triumphant.
These characters are reflecting the larger themes of 'power' and 'trickery' within a storyline, as noted by Steven Zucker's mention of representations of power. Similarly, the lack of moral judgment on the poor, as noted in one of the provided excerpts, can correlate with these characters' own stories, where their actions may be viewed through a sympathetic lens rather than one that is strictly moralistic.
In narratives, the experience and taste of candy as well as the colorful imagery associated with it, described as appealing to the senses, plays a role in adding to the immersive experience for the reader, underscoring the characters' sense of triumph in acquiring it.