A blade
The simile "His words met her like a blade" vividly conveys the emotional impact of the message Iris unfolds from Kitt. The comparison to a blade suggests a sharp and cutting intensity, highlighting the emotional pain and severity of the information contained in the letter. This simile captures the idea that the contents of the letter are not just information but carry a profound and potentially distressing impact, leaving Iris emotionally vulnerable.
He was like a god to her
The simile "He was like a god to her" carries a profound and reverential tone, emphasizing the depth of admiration and trust Iris holds for her brother, Forest. By likening Forest to a god, the comparison suggests an elevated and almost divine status in Iris's eyes. The simile implies that Forest possesses qualities of wisdom, authority, and perhaps a protective and nurturing nature akin to a deity guiding and shaping Iris's experiences.
The lines on her palm
The simile "Iris had come to know this town like the lines on her palm" conveys the depth and familiarity Iris has developed with Avalon Bluff. In the context of the excerpt, Iris's familiarity with the town is not superficial; it runs deep, implying a nuanced awareness of its streets, landmarks, and the daily rhythms of life. Like the lines on her palm that are unique and tell a personal story, Iris's knowledge of Avalon Bluff is similarly distinctive and shaped by her experiences including the challenges of war and the training she underwent.
A shield
The simile "But her pride remained in place like a shield" vividly illustrates the tenacity with which Iris clings to her sense of pride despite the tumultuous circumstances. The comparison draws on the imagery of a shield, a protective barrier traditionally associated with defense and resilience. The simile not only emphasizes the strength of Iris's pride but also suggests that it acts as a form of emotional armor, shielding her from the impact of both external threats and the complex emotions stirred by Roman's presence.
A doormat
The simile "She felt like a doormat" conveys a profound sense of emotional vulnerability and powerlessness experienced by the character, Iris Winnow. The comparison to a doormat suggests that Iris perceives herself as an object devoid of agency. The simile implies that she feels stepped upon and overlooked, reduced to a passive role in her interactions with others particularly illustrated by her interaction with Zeb.
