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Definition of Simile
A simile is a figure of speech that directly compares two unlike things. To make the comparison, similes most often use the connecting words "like" or "as," but can also... read full definition
A simile is a figure of speech that directly compares two unlike things. To make the comparison, similes most often use the connecting words "like... read full definition
A simile is a figure of speech that directly compares two unlike things. To make the comparison, similes most often... read full definition
Chapter 2: Matthew Cuthbert Is Surprised
Explanation and Analysis—Wild Plum Branch:
Montgomery often includes similes in the story to point out similarities between humanity and nature. In Chapter 2, the narrator compares a wild plum branch to a "white-clad girl" via simile:
Above the bridge the pond ran up into fringing groves of fir and maple and lay all darkly translucent in their wavering shadows. Here and there a wild plum leaned out from the bank like a white-clad girl tip-toeing to her own reflection.
The image of a "girl tip-toeing to her own reflection" evokes Anne's own curiosity and self-consciousness. She hopes to discover a new life for herself in Avonlea, and her vision of the plum branch on the way home to Green Gables suggests her future success. Earlier in the story, Anne suggested that one of the "white and lacy" branches looks like "a bride all in white with a lovely misty veil." She also admits to thinking she will never be a bride because she is "homely," but she still has great admiration for the concept. The narrator echoes her romantic sentiments, enhancing her effusive dialogue with detailed descriptions of the plum branch (along with many other natural features). Of all the descriptions in the first few chapters, this one stands out due to its striking simile that echoes Anne's current station in life.
Related Themes:
Chapter 4: Morning at Green Gables
Explanation and Analysis—Can(ne)dle:
In Chapter 4, when Anne discovers she might have to leave Green Gables, the narrator conveys the sudden change in her emotional state by comparing her to a candle:
Anne flew to the door, face alight, eyes glowing. On the very threshold she stopped short, wheeled about, came back and sat down by the table, light and glow as effectually blotted out as if some one had clapped an extinguisher on her.
Here, Anne approaches Marilla to beg for a home at Green Gables. When Marilla told her to go out after washing the dishes, she approached the door, her "eyes glowing" with excitement at the prospect of exploring the land. However, Anne suddenly realizes that she might not be able to stay at Green Gables, and her fiery spirit is suddenly "blotted out" as if she were a candle whose flame was extinguished. This simile communicates Anne's internal mental process by describing the external effect of her thoughts—she feels sad because she knows that if she goes out to "get acquainted with all those trees and flowers" she might end up falling in love, and there is no use in "loving things if you have to be torn from them."
Anne's predisposition toward optimism makes the worst moments less painful, but in this scene, she cannot hide her disappointment at the prospect of being sent away. A glimpse of beautiful Avonlea caused her to glow with happiness, and the idea that she might have to leave makes her seem like a candle whose flame has just gone out. The candle simile also evokes the warmth, movement, and brightness of a flame, as well as the fiery red color of Anne's hair.
Related Themes:
