How should I start my essay? Easy Points.?

I have a 5 paragraph essay due in a few days and I can't find out a way to start it off. If people write a introductory paragraph i could get some different voices and opinions. Anyway, the prompt is "Discuss symbolism from the novel. Choose three specific symbols and explain how they are used in the novel." The novel is Fallen Angels by Walter Dean Myers and in the opening paragraph you can't use contractions or personal pronouns. Thank you.