Wet, spongy rubber
The narrator of the "Taste" story has a critical eye for the gourmand guest at the dinner; he believes to see the wicked spark in his eyes, especially when he proposes a bet for the host's daughter. His descriptions of his appearance and self-important mannerisms that the narrator makes grotesque comparisons to, like his lips sliding over the wine glass like wet, spongy rubber makes the image of the self-important character almost comical.
Blood wet on the hands
After setting up the spying equipment in the guest room, Arthur from the story "My Lady Love, My Dove" decides to not immediately go and greet the guests because he may appear too flustered. He decides that he has to compose himself, to not appear in front of them with the blood still wet on his hands.
In a cage with a tiger
Perkins from the story "Galloping Foxley" feels, upon seeing his abuser from school after all these years, still uneasy. He feels in his presence like being inside a cage with a tiger. This sensation that Perkins feels reveal that the wounds from youth haven't properly healed, even after so much time has passed.
Tapestry of colour and death
"The Wish" story is about a young boy playing inside the house pretending that the carpet is a maze full of snake that he has to pass through. In his imaginative mind, the carpet becomes a tapestry of color and death. In this story, the author portrays a playful child mind and legitimate fears that child's imagination provokes.
Voice like Music
Accepting the invitation of Lady Turton, the narrator makes a visit to the estate of the rich inheritor Basil Turton. He is received by the butler who makes a suggestion with a voice like music to trick Lady Turton in gambling and share the winning with him. The narrator soon realizes that the butler is fond of his master, and that Lady Turton's intentions are purely materialistic.
Mr Feasey
Mr Feasey, who decides which of the dogs get to participate in the dog race, stops Claud in his tracks and refuses to let his dog pass. He is a vigorous and detailed character and the narrator compares him to a perky bird, a goldfinch because of the jerky movements of his head.
