The Grinch's Heart (Metaphor)
While the story does take the size of the Grinch's heart literally, it also uses the Grinch's too-small heart as a metaphor for his lack of love, compassion, and kindness. It is only when the Grinch comes face to face with the sense of community operative in Who-ville that his heart grows to a normal size, and he himself develops the capacity for joy.
Serpents (Metaphor)
As the Grinch travels about his first Who house stealing presents, the narrator compares his movements to a serpent or snake. He uses words like "slither," "slunk," and "hissed," to emphasize the Grinch's duplicitous and secretive nature as he uses his Santa Claus disguise to ruin Christmas.
Cindy-Lou Who (Simile)
Just as the Grinch is about to shove the entire Christmas tree up the chimney, he hears "a small sound like the coo of a dove." This simile describes the voice of Cindy-Lou Who. Comparing her to a dove emphasizes her gentleness and innocence as she happens upon the Grinch in the midst of his scheme.
The Grinch's Speed (Simile)
After the Grinch steals the presents and decorations, he decides to also take the food that the Whos will bring to the giant Who feast. The narrator says, "He cleaned out that icebox as quick as a flash. Why that Grinch even took their last can of Who-hash!" In this simile, the narrator emphasizes the Grinch's quick movement, suggesting that everything is going according to plan.
Singing (Metaphor)
At the end of the story, the Grinch is surprised when he hears the Whos singing together (as they do every year) rather than crying over their missing presents. This singing becomes a metaphor for community, joy, and the Christmas spirit that eventually inspires the Grinch to return what he stole and to join the celebration.
