Hunger and Resilience
The image of Kitty and Tanner as "starving" apprentices in Auckland, New Zealand is an example of imagery in "At Hiruharama." This vivid and evocative imagery conveys the difficult circumstances in which Kitty and Tanner find themselves when they first arrive in New Zealand. It suggests their struggles to survive and thrive in a foreign and often hostile environment. The imagery also hints at their determination and resilience in the face of these challenges, as well as their eventual success in building a new life for themselves in Hiruharama.
Affluent Relationships
The image of Brinkman smoking and waiting patiently for dinner to be served is an example of imagery in the story. This imagery conveys the informality and casualness of the Tanners' relationship with Brinkman, as well as his sense of entitlement. It also highlights the contrast between the Tanners' humble homestead and Brinkman's more affluent lifestyle. The imagery of Brinkman smoking and waiting for dinner also serves as a metaphor for the Tanners' relationship with their neighbors and the community at large, as they struggle to balance their own needs and desires with the expectations of others.
The Twins
The image of the twins, one larger and one smaller, is another example of imagery in the story. This imagery conveys the unexpected nature of the second twin's birth, as well as the contrast between the two sisters. It also foreshadows the different paths their lives will take, with one becoming a successful lawyer and the other remaining at the homestead. In this way, the imagery of the twins serves as a metaphor for the unpredictable and sometimes unequal nature of life. The image also suggests the Tanners' determination to provide opportunities for their children, even in the face of difficult circumstances.