Leans Over the River
The words ‘leans over the river of his consciousnesses” are metaphorically used by the author to help the reader understand the extent to which an adolescent does self-reflection. In reality, there is no river in one's consciousness but the metaphor is vital in aiding the reader to get a deeper understanding of how an adolescent self-reflects about the changes in his life both physical and emotional.
A few groups still live as they did in the prehistoric times, others like the Atomies
The author is trying to compare how the different races live in Mexico. They speak different languages and live different lifestyles. The point is that each category of the inhabitants within the territory has the choice of living as they want.
The feelings are Superimposed like pre-Cortesian pyramids
Octavio Paz compares the hostile beliefs and feelings to pre-Cortesian pyramids. Using this simile, the author appeals to the reader the magnitude of inhabitants’ beliefs towards their religions and denominations.
Sometimes Mexicanism breaks up like a cloud and sometimes stands erect like a rising skyrocket.
The author, Octavio, is comparing the efficiency of North America to that of Mexico. The writer notes that despite Mexico's decorations and beauty, it is efficient in terms of service delivery that cannot be compared with that of North America.
Mexicans’ sensibilities are like a pendulum that swings erratically and violently.
The author argues that the Mexicans living in North American Streets seem to have forgotten their origin and culture. They can be identified as Mexicans from the way they dress but the actions are more westernized as opposed to their origin
