What does the blue French horn symbolize?

In the TV series "How I Met Your Mother," the blue French horn (which is actually a painted mellophone) carries several symbolic meanings, particularly in the context of Ted Mosby's relationships.

Representation of Ted and Robin's Relationship

The blue French horn is most notably associated with Ted's relationship with Robin. It first appears in the pilot episode when Ted steals the horn to impress Robin, symbolizing his willingness to go to great lengths for love34.

Faithfulness, Purity, and Loyalty

The color blue, in line with Victorian wedding traditions, represents faithfulness, purity, and loyalty. This adds a deeper layer to the horn's symbolism, reflecting the enduring and committed nature of Ted's feelings for Robin2.

Permanence and Pursuit

The horn also symbolizes permanence and Ted's active pursuit of love. Despite losing and retrieving the horn multiple times throughout the series, it ultimately ends up back with Ted and Robin, mirroring their on-again, off-again relationship and Ted's persistent feelings for her13.

Contrast with Other Symbols

In the broader context of the show, the blue French horn contrasts with other symbols like the yellow umbrella (representing love coming from unexpected places and fate) and the red boots (representing relationships that don't work out). The horn specifically represents a love story driven by Ted's actions and desires, as opposed to fate1.