Like Giant Guardians (Simile)
While describing the ocean-side setting of Past the Shallows, Parrett writes that the shoreline cliffs are "like giant guardians standing tall." In this simile, which is a comparison made using "like" or "as," Parrett emphasizes the protective function of cliffs by personifying them as giant figures who stand guard against the turbulent and often violent sea.
Mountain of Water (Metaphor)
During the novel's climactic scene, six-foot swells threaten to swamp and capsize Miles's Dad's fishing boat. When one such wave overcomes the side, Parrett writes that "a mountain of water broke the sides." In this metaphor, Parrett illustrates how Miles perceives the immense weight and looming quality of the wave by likening the water to a mountain.
Held Him Like Stone (Simile)
After Dad pushes Harry overboard, Miles goes save him by climbing onto the ship's rail and jumping. However, Dad holds him back: "He climbed onto the rails, was ready to jump, but Dad grabbed him up—held him like stone." In this simile, Parrett underscores the crushing strength with which Dad holds Miles down by comparing Dad's grip to stone.
Sunset of Impending Death (Metaphor)
As Miles swims with Harry on his back, trying desperately to beat hypothermia and make it to safety, Parrett writes that "Miles was in the orange light that came before darkness. The sun burning brightly before it fell below the earth." In this metaphor, Parrett illustrates how Miles perceives the onset of hypothermia as a feeling akin to watching the sun's dying rays before it falls below the horizon line—a metaphor that suggests Miles's body is shutting down, on the verge of death.
Stuck to Your Skin Like Glue (Simile)
To illustrate Miles's enthusiasm for surfing, Parrett writes that "Miles could get into his wetsuit so fast, even when it was damp and stuck to your skin like glue." In this simile, Parrett captures the unpleasant feeling of putting on a damp neoprene rubber wetsuit by comparing the material's tight, wet, friction-causing material to glue.
