“And I like a golem believed everyone" (994) (Simile)
In this simile, Gimpel compares himself to a "golem," a term with a number of different meanings. In Jewish folklore, a golem is an entity made entirely out of inanimate matter and is therefore interpreted as "incomplete" in its substance. By comparing himself to a golem, Gimpel underscores his foolishness in a self-deprecating way, suggesting that he himself lacks substance and depth.
“Her mouth would open as if it were on a hinge, and she had a fierce tongue" (995) (Simile)
This simile describes Elka, Gimpel's wife, the first time they meet. By imagining that Elka's mouth is like a door on a hinge, Gimpel presents her as a grotesque and fearsome person whom all the townspeople avoid. Gimpel nevertheless marries Elka, as he sees he has no way out of it.
"I adored her every word. She gave me bloody wounds though" (997) (Metaphor)
It is unclear whether Gimpel's statement here is a metaphor or if it accurately reflects his relationship with Elka. Likely, Gimpel refers to the "bloody wounds" he receives from his wife as a way to convey her cruelty and "fierce tongue" (995) she is known to have. This metaphor showcases Gimpel's admission that he was passive toward his wife and allowed her to deceive and abuse him.
