Wings of Freedom
Adeline Yen Mah uses figurative language masterfully in Along the River to explore freedom, creativity, and the inner struggles of her characters. Through metaphors and similes, the author transforms everyday actions into reflections of emotional and social realities.
Flight as Freedom: "Spread the Wings"
When Dr. Allen encourages CC to explore beyond her hospital room, he suggests she "spread her wings a little." This metaphor likens CC's journey of self-discovery to a bird taking flight. It is a conceptual metaphor, where personal growth and courage are represented by the physical action of flying. CC's exploration mirrors the process of opening oneself to new experiences and possibilities, emphasizing emancipation from physical and mental constraints.
Confinement and Desire: The Caged Bird
Ah Zhao's act of releasing pigeons into the sky is a symbolic simile, comparing the birds' freedom to his own longing to escape societal and personal limitations. Mei Lan also resonates with this image, feeling trapped within her family's rigid expectations. This simile highlights emotional confinement and the universal human desire for autonomy. It is both a character metaphor and a social metaphor, reflecting the limitations imposed by societal structures and class divisions.
The Artist’s Calling: "Instrument of Heaven"
Ah Zhao considers his art as a conduit to reveal truth and beauty, describing himself as an "Instrument of Heaven." This is a metaphorical analogy, connecting the mortal act of creating art with a divine purpose. It conveys spiritual and ethical dimensions of creativity, suggesting that genuine artistry elevates the human experience and connects individuals to higher ideals.
Types of Figurative Language Used
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Conceptual Metaphors: Personal growth, freedom, and creativity are expressed as tangible actions like flying or creating.
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Symbolic Similes: Characters' emotions are mirrored in natural or relatable phenomena, such as birds flying or being caged.
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Analogy/Extended Metaphor: The "Instrument of Heaven" elevates artistic pursuit to a divine mission, connecting action with moral or spiritual significance.
Significance in the Story
These figurative elements serve to:
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Illuminate characters' internal conflicts and aspirations.
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Reinforce central themes like freedom, creativity, and self-discovery.
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Create vivid imagery that resonates with readers on both emotional and intellectual levels.
Through this carefully woven figurative language, Yen Mah shows that even constrained lives can aspire toward liberation, expression, and connection—transcending time, space, and circumstance.
