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Similes
Chapter 5
Explanation and Analysis:
Lauren writes her journal entries with straightforward, definitive language. She uses very little figurative or scenic language, which makes sense given that the world she lives within is barren and apocalyptic. This is not to say that Lauren does not employ descriptive language at all. In fact, she is very precise in keeping an archive of her life both within and outside of her community's walls and depicts images of what violence she witnesses around her.
When writing about Earthseed or other topics related to religion and politics, Lauren utilizes argumentative language with appeals to ethos (credibility) and logos (logic). Lauren details with evidence via allusions to the Bible as well as scientific facts the logic behind her arguments: why she disagrees with her Father's religion, why hope for humanity lies beyond the stars, and why Earthseed is the truth. Lauren's argumentative, evidence-based style reflects her desire for urgency in addressing Earth's continued demise. Especially as she feels that many of those around her are stuck in outdated ideologies, Lauren must practice, for herself, persuasive and sound arguments by which to convert others to Earthseed. This practice becomes especially crucial as she travels up California's coast meeting, and eventually recruiting, a sizable group of people. This skill is perhaps why Lauren is able to become a skilled and valued leader by the end of the novel.
