"Like Typing with Hammers" – Simile
This simile illustrates Rhiannon's struggle to express complex emotions. Comparing words to the bluntness of hammers emphasizes how awkward and laborious communication can feel when emotions are overwhelming, highlighting the gap between thought and expression.
"A Shadow" – Metaphor
Rhiannon is described as a shadow alongside Justin, symbolizing her invisibility and lack of agency in their toxic relationship. It reflects how she moves quietly, almost unnoticed, while struggling to assert herself and find her own identity.
"Spoiled from Lack of Use" – Metaphor
This metaphor critiques Justin's emotional stagnation, suggesting that his personality has deteriorated over time due to neglect and disengagement. It underscores the emotional decay present in their relationship and emphasizes Rhiannon's growing awareness of her own needs.
"At the Center of a Beating Heart" – Simile
This simile conveys the intensity of being fully immersed in a lively and vibrant moment. The comparison to the heart's core symbolizes life, energy, and emotional connection, reflecting Rhiannon's exhilaration and sense of vitality in moments of genuine engagement.
"Body-Swapping as a Central Metaphor" – Extended Metaphor
A's daily inhabitation of different bodies serves as a central metaphor for identity's fluidity. It symbolizes the universality of human experience and the challenges of forming deep connections beyond physical appearance. This metaphor underscores the novel's exploration of love, empathy, and understanding across diverse forms and perspectives.
