The opening of a door
The simile "To Jean, the news that the Australian was still alive came like the opening of a door" compares the news of the Australian's survival to the experience of a door being opened which conveys a sense of sudden illumination, opportunity, and a new beginning. Like a door swinging open, the news brings an unexpected and transformative shift in Jean's emotions and outlook. Throughout her time in Kuala Telang, Jean has been grappling with difficult circumstances, witnessing cruelty and suffering, and facing uncertainty. The revelation of the Australian's survival acts as a turning point in her emotional journey, offering a glimmer of hope and relief after a prolonged period of darkness. The comparison to the opening door suggests that this news has unlocked a previously unknown realm of possibilities, inviting Jean to step into a new chapter of her life with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism.
An old woman
The simile "After the war I felt like an old woman" reflects the profound impact of wartime experiences on Jean's sense of self. The comparison to an old woman conveys a profound weariness and heaviness that she carries within her. The simile captures the toll that the war has taken on her physical and emotional well-being, emphasizing the weight of trauma, loss, and hardship she has endured. The use of "old woman" also implies a loss of youthful vitality and innocence, indicating that the war has robbed her of the carefree spirit and optimism of her youth. This simile underscores the transformative nature of war and the lasting effects it can have on individuals while also highlighting the theme of resilience and the enduring impact of war on those who have lived through it.
A Sick heart
The metaphor "With a sick heart he watched her as she came alongside" conveys the District Commissioner's overwhelming emotional distress as he witnesses the arrival of the Osprey loaded with Japanese troops. The term "sick heart" encapsulates a range of complex emotions including fear, sorrow, and despair. It paints a vivid picture of the DC's internal turmoil and sense of helplessness in the face of the advancing enemy. The choice of "watched" emphasizes his inability to alter the course of events, intensifying the feeling of powerlessness. The juxtaposition of the DC's emotions with the imposing presence of the militarized vessel underscores the enormity of the threat and the impending danger faced by the evacuees. Through this evocative metaphor, the author masterfully captures the human cost of war and invites readers to connect with the emotional toll of conflict on a personal level.
A Weed
The simile "that grew like a weed throughout the afternoon" conveys the rapid and unchecked expansion of Jean's doubts and uncertainties as the day progresses. The comparison to a weed emphasizes the speed and uncontrollability of this emotional growth, suggesting that Jean's initial resolve and clarity are being overrun by her rising hesitations and conflicting emotions. Weeds are known for their fast and invasive growth, often taking over and overshadowing other plants. In this context, the simile reflects the overwhelming nature of Jean's doubts as they start to dominate her thoughts and feelings, threatening to suffocate her earlier convictions. The simile portrays how an initial seed of doubt planted by the acts of kindness she encountered has rapidly expanded and taken root in her mind, reshaping her perceptions and potentially altering the course of her journey.
Like a log
The simile "Like a log" portrays the soundness of Jean's sleep. The comparison to a log, a heavy and solid piece of wood, evokes the image of Jean sleeping deeply and undisturbed, akin to an unyielding and immobile object. The simile suggests that she slept without any disturbances, completely relaxed and oblivious to her surroundings. This simile also serves to underscore the significance of the moment, marking a turning point in Jean and Joe's relationship. After a night of intimacy, Jean's deep and sound sleep reflects a sense of emotional contentment and connection with Joe as well as a newfound sense of security and comfort in their bond.
The Boongs
The simile "and eating like the boongs" is a comparison that can be analyzed for its cultural and historical context. In this context, "boongs" is a derogatory term used in Australia to refer to Aboriginal people. By using this simile, the Australian character, Joe Harman is making a judgment about the way the women are eating, implying that they are eating like the Aboriginal people who were stereotypically perceived as living a more primitive lifestyle. This simile reveals the prevailing racism and discrimination that existed in Australia during that period where Aboriginal people were often marginalized and treated unfairly. This simile not only sheds light on the racial attitudes of the time but also adds depth to the character dynamics and themes of cultural understanding and empathy within the story.
