Dirt Metaphor
The narrator states, "Much like sand is considered 'clean' when it is on a beach or in a sandbox but 'dirty' when it is inside a house or on a child’s hands, those considered Mexican, and therefore out of their proper place, are often referred to as dirty." This metaphor highlights how societal perceptions of cleanliness and order are context-dependent. In this analogy, Mexicans are seen as "dirty" when they are out of what is perceived as their "proper place." The metaphor underscores the racial and social prejudices that deem Mexicans as undesirable or out of place in certain environments. It criticizes the exclusion that reinforces systemic racism by implying that Mexicans belong in certain roles deemed acceptable by the dominant culture.
Want Metaphor
The following metaphor suggests that migrant laborers' hardships are a result of their desires and choices. Holmes states, "Migrant laborers are blamed for their own suffering, often using the metaphor of 'want,' as well as for the suffering of those categorized as 'American.'" This metaphor is used to justify the mistreatment of migrant workers by framing their suffering as self-inflicted. By attributing their poor living and working conditions to their own "wants," the broader society absolves itself of responsibility for these conditions. This perspective ignores the structural inequalities and lack of opportunities that force individuals into these desperate circumstances. Additionally, it shifts the blame onto the migrants, portraying them as agents of their misery rather than victims of systemic exploitation.
Embodied Suffering Metaphor
"Embodied suffering" captures the profound physical and emotional distress experienced by migrant workers. Holmes' narrative portrays the harsh realities faced by these workers, such as working long hours in extreme weather, living in substandard housing, and dealing with health issues without adequate medical care. The metaphor reflects how their bodies bear the scars of systemic exploitation with their suffering becoming a tangible testament to the inequities they endure. This metaphor humanizes the statistical and economic discussions about migrant labor.
Communion Ritual (Simile)
Holmes asserts, "It feels like family, solidarity, almost like a communion ritual before a dangerous trial of biblical proportions." This simile likens the act of sharing food among migrants to a communion ritual, which emphasizes the deep sense of community and solidarity among them. The author suggests that this shared meal is about spiritual and emotional support by invoking the imagery of religious communion. Moreover, the phrase "before a dangerous trial of biblical proportions" hints at the immense challenges and dangers that lie ahead for the migrants. This simile encapsulates the idea that the migrants find strength and unity through small acts of togetherness, much like participants in a sacred ritual.
Jumping Chords (Simile)
The narrator states, "It jumps and jumps like chords jumping, like this, like this [rapidly opening and closing his hands]." This simile is used to describe the intense and sudden pain in Bernardo's abdomen. The narrator vividly expresses the spasmodic and unpredictable nature of the discomfort by comparing the pain to chords. This comparison emphasizes the relentless nature of the pain, making it more relatable to the reader. It also highlights how Bernardo's body reacts violently to the strain and stress of his labor-intensive life.
