Symbolism, Imagery, Allegory
Several of the characters in Little Women are lovers of music. Beth's only passion is playing the piano and singing, and she reminds old Mr. Laurence of his musical granddaughter who died young. Laurie fancies himself a composer, until he realizes that he doesn't quite have the genius necessary to be truly great. And the entire March family, including Marmee, enjoys singing together before they go to bed. In each case, music seems to have an unearthly, almost divine quality, drawing the family closer to each other and to God.