In Colette's short story "The Hand," the protagonist's hand serves as a symbol for the loss of identity and autonomy. The hand, which was once a part of the protagonist's body, is now controlled by the will of another person and is no longer a representation of the protagonist's own desires and actions.
The hand is first introduced as a "puppet hand," indicating that it is being used as a tool for someone else's entertainment. The protagonist watches as the hand performs tricks, such as "waving" and "pointing," but has no control over these actions. This lack of control over the hand reflects the protagonist's lack of control over their own life and identity.
As the story progresses, the hand becomes more and more independent, eventually breaking free from its puppeteer and "running away" on its own. This symbolizes the protagonist's desire to reclaim their autonomy and independence, to break free from the constraints that have been placed on them.
However, the hand's independence is short-lived, as it is eventually captured and returned to its puppet state. This represents the protagonist's inability to truly escape their circumstances and the limitations placed upon them.
In the end, the hand is given to a new owner, symbolizing the protagonist's loss of identity and the ways in which their autonomy has been taken away by others. The hand, which was once a part of the protagonist, is now controlled by another and no longer represents the protagonist's own desires and actions.
Overall, the hand in Colette's "The Hand" serves as a powerful symbol for the loss of identity and autonomy, and the ways in which individuals can have their sense of self controlled by others.