In A.S. Byatt's "The Virgin in the Garden," the concept of transformation is vividly illustrated through the metaphor of a butterfly's life cycle. This analogy suggests that the physical form, akin to a pupa, is merely a temporary phase in the journey of the soul, which ultimately seeks to emerge in a more refined and beautiful state. The imagery connects the processes of growth and change, highlighting the idea that true artistry emerges from struggle and evolution.

The transformation from larva to imago symbolizes the potential for personal and artistic development. Byatt draws a parallel between biological metamorphosis and the creative process, where the artist's soul is unveiled through layers of experience and expression. This notion emphasizes the beauty of arrival at one's full self, where the struggles of maturation and self-discovery contribute to the richness of art and life.