There's a book cover contest for Breaking Dawn on HisGoldenEyes and I had some fun in PhotoShop with two ideas. (I did them quickly and I'm not very good with photos. That's a puddle of blood in the second one, in case you're wondering). Before I explain why I did them the way I did, maybe all 5 people who visit here could give their interpretations. If you want to.
Edit: First off, I have to tell all of you how impressed I am with your interpretations. You thought of some aspects that didn't even occur to me. In fact, you're probably going to be very disappointed in my explanations. They aren't nearly as deep and profound as all of yours. Thank you for taking time to post your comments and putting it out there for others to read.
Second, as Milary said, Meyer's past book covers have nothing to do with the titles. They are all more metaphorical, representing one of the major story themes with a red/white subject, leaving the readers to come up with a plethora of explanations. Even Mrs. Meyer has admitted that she's unsure of the meaning of the tulip on the cover of New Moon. In the end, I don't think there's a wrong answer here.
Now, unless you have an ARC of Breaking Dawn, I figure we're all speculating here because though we can guess what might happen in the novel, we really don't know. But one of those guesses involves Bella's transformation into a vampire; hence, the butterfly. But I wanted to imply that not all goes as it should, or that a sacrifice is required so I put the tear in the wing, suggesting her flight would be impaired. I selected the butterfly for another reason. In Franz Kafka's novella, Metamorphosis, his character, Gregor Samsa wakes to find himself transformed into a monster. Though the butterfly is beautiful, the caterpillar phase has a voracious appetite and is quite destructive. Throughout the series, Edward battles with his self-perception ("What if I'm not the hero? What if I am the bad guy?). Bella only sees the angel, but Edward is aware of how monstrous his kind can be AND the struggle each of the Cullens have made to become a more civil and "enlightened" vampire clan. We all remember Bree from Eclipse?? And Erinne, let's not forget Jacob. Our warm-blooded, half-naked space heater left us in monster form. What will happen to him? And as far as the golden eye goes, I put it there partly because I thought it was a fun thing to do on a butterfly, but also because it's the eye color Bella wants to evolve to as a vampire. But she has to survive that risky red-eyed, newborn-monster phase first.
Still with me? On to the second. Again, great replies. And Sarah, though I really liked your idea about the fur, they are feathers. For me, more than the angelic reference to Edward, they represent the significance of Bella's last name, Swan. Afterall, this is Bella's story. The transformation of the ugly duckling to a beautiful swan made me first think of the feathers. Though Edward doesn't think Bella is ugly, she certainly considers herself dull, clumsy, and plain when compared to the Cullens. The story of the Ugly Duckling is also about being ostracized, seeking acceptance and ultimately, realizing your true self and belonging. I really hope we find out why Bella is so unique. Why she's unaffected by certain vampire powers. Is there something in her ancestry that will reveal her true nature? OR will she come to realize that ultimately, her humanity is most important.
Second, swans mate for life which eludes to the much-hoped-for union in this book. (Not to mention the imprinting of werewolves). I put the pool of blood on the ground to suggest something has been sacrificed in return for Bella's decision. No matter what happens in this book, I believe that each of the characters will make choices that will cause them pain. (And let's not forget how tasty a swan is to a wolf).
Well, thanks for playing with me. You've all been good sports. I've heard that the real cover has shattered glass and spattered blood but perhaps it's just a rumor. On May 31st, we'll all know.
