Final answer:
The primary symbol in Borges's "Afterglow" is not directly mentioned in the provided texts. However, themes of transition, memory, and life-and-death suggest that the poem's symbolism might echo cultural, historical, or personal elements. Such symbolic interpretations are often multi-layered and subjective.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary symbol in Borges's poem "Afterglow" is not directly referenced within the materials provided. However, by analyzing similar themes and symbolic representations in the provided references, we can surmise the use of symbols related to transition, memory, and the interplay of life and death, which are prevalent in Borges's work.
For instance, the reference to Lorca's elegy and the impact of the Spanish Civil War suggest themes of loss and remembrance. Similarly, Motherwell's transition from specific subtitles that referenced Granada to a more generalized expression shows a movement towards universality in symbols. MirĂ³'s Lunar Bird combines elements of the sky, the earth, and creatures, illustrating the interconnectedness of different realms.
Symbolism in writings and art often relies on the intertextuality and contextual associations gathered by the reader or observer. The elements of symbolism are frequently connected to cultural references, personal experiences, or historical events, making the interpretation subjective and multi-layered.
As such, a thorough interpretation of the symbolism in "Afterglow" should consider Borges's broader thematic concerns and how they might resonate with symbols drawn from history, art, and literature.