I have to write a symbolism essay for my English class and I'm stressing out because instead of doing it on one story, I need to do it on two in one paper. What my teacher asked was:

- Choose two stories and explain them in terms of symbolism. Explore how each author uses specific symbolic elements to enhance the effectiveness of the story. Begin with a clear thesis; use specific examples and quotes from the text to support your points; and wrap the essay up with a meaningful conclusion.

I need help on the introduction and also the thesis as well as the structure of the essay. It needs to be 4-pages double spaced. The teacher said that it isn't a comparing/contrasting paper but if the authors use similar methods, you can put them together. It would also be very helpful if I could get some ideas for the symbolism in each story and how I could incorporate it into the essay. But mainly I just need help on getting an outline or something I could work with because I have no idea how to start this.