Symbolism

I know that often when we think of symbols, especially in literature, we think of inanimate objects.  However, we sometimes forget that authors also like to use humans as symbols in their stories to say something important or to merely comment about an aspect of life.  In this chapter, Vonnegut uses the cook as a symbol to represent those who negate the sacrifices the soldiers make.  She says to them that "All the real soldiers are dead" in response to seeing their dreadful condition.  many people think that only strong, physical men are the ones that can survive the war (such as Ronald Weary who actually ends up dieing in the fourth chapter).  It is easy for people like the cook to forget how valuable a small man like Billy can actually be in the war and they forget that these soldiers are making sacrifices themselves such as being away from their home and families. That is something that should never be overlooked.