Eye metaphor
In this passage, Erikson discusses the representation of the eye in Russian literature and in political literature: "In Russian literature there is endless variation in the use of the eye as a soulful receptor, as an avid grasper, and as the very organ for mutual soulful surrender. Regarding the great models of political and literary life, however, the emphasis is on the eye as an incorruptible instrument for the manipulation of the future." The eye becomes a metaphor for positive concepts such as the human soul and its perception. However, the eye also becomes a political metaphor for the manipulation of trust.
Origin of lunacy metaphor
Erikson discusses theories about the "origin of lunacy" over history, stating the lunacy was believed to have been caused by an "indwelling devil." This is a metaphor for historical theories that lunacy was caused by the supernatural and demonic possession.
Clerical garb metaphor
When speaking about the word "clinical" and its associations throughout history, Erikson states that this term has "long since shed this clerical garb." He uses this metaphor to speak about the changing attitude towards the clinical, from spiritual to scientific.
Machine simile
Erikson uses a simile in the following passage, suggesting that men are treated like machines: "that these men run themselves lie machinery... that they view the world and run the people as machinery becomes a danger to man." In this simile, he expresses the idea that men are not respected as autonomous individuals.
