My Side of the Mountain Metaphors and Similes

The relationship between Sam and Frightful

One of the most interesting and striking metaphors in the novel is the comparison of Sam's relationship with his falcon, Frightful, to that of a marriage. Making this comparison explicit, Sam notes that "it was like being married to her [Frightful], only better" (George, 92). This metaphor highlights Frightful's importance to Sam's life in the woods, as well as the trust and mutual dependence of their relationship.

Sam's growth as related to a river

Another second metaphor in the novel is the comparison of Sam's journey of self-discovery and growth as a person to a river that flows and changes over time. Sam reflects on his experiences in the woods and notes that "like a river that has become a little pond, I was slowing down" (George, 107). This metaphor highlights the ways in which Sam's experiences have shaped him and that self-discovery is an ongoing process that requires continual assessment and change.

Sam's survival related to a game of chess

A third metaphor that arises in the novel is the comparison of Sam's survival attempts in the Catskills to a game of chess. When Sam examines his strategies for hunting and foraging, he considers that "it was like playing chess, and I was always moving my pieces around to make the next move" (George, 43). This metaphor exemplifies the strategic thinking required for survival in the wilderness, as well as Sam's realization of the importance of adapting to changing circumstances.

The sound of a loon representing loneliness

George also uses a simile to describe the sound of a loon on the lake: "the loon called again, its cry echoing over the water like a wild and lonesome trumpet" (George, 59). This simile creates a detailed image in the reader's mind of the nature that Sam experiences and it captures the sense of isolation that Sam experiences during his time living there. He is free but he is alone.