What is the skylark a symbol of in To a Skylark?

In Percy Bysshe Shelley's poem "To a Skylark," the skylark symbolizes the ideal of uninhibited joy and creativity. The bird's song represents a pure, transcendent beauty that contrasts with human struggles and despair. The skylark’s ability to soar high and sing joyfully serves as a reminder of the possibility of spiritual elevation and the pursuit of inspiration beyond worldly concerns. Ultimately, it embodies the aspiration for artistic expression and the pursuit of happiness.