Metaphors in Elaine's art
In her art, Elaine includes several objects, which are metaphors for aspects of her identity and experiences. For example, the image of water in her art is a metaphor for her traumatic experience with water as a child. Eyes are also included in her art, which serves as a metaphor for her issues with judgement from others.
Simile about depression
In the following passage, Elaine uses a simile to describe her depression: “I don't want to see anyone. I lie in the bedroom with the curtains drawn and nothingness washing over me like a sluggish wave." The feelings of emptiness she experiences as described as having a weight to them and are compared to a "sluggish wave."
Elaine and Jon metaphor
When speaking about her relationship with Jon, Elaine says: "We have been shark to one another, but also lifeboat. That counts for something.” Atwood uses the images of a shark and lifeboat to metaphorically suggest something about their relationship. The couple are incredibly unhealthy and are each other’s worst enemy. However, they are also each other’s lifeboat, showing how complicated their relationship is.
Clam simile
“Happy as a clam, is what my mother says for happy. I am happy as a clam: hard-shelled, firmly closed.” Here, the simile "happy as a clam" is subverted. This phrase is usually used to suggest that someone is very happy. However, here Atwood draws attention to other features of a clam, such as its hard shell, and the fact it is firmly closed, which Elaine resonates with.
