A Queen
The simile "You gon' shine like a queen!" paints a vivid image of the effect he envisions his photography will have on his mother, Mavis. The simile implies that through his photography, Mavis's inner radiance and dignity will be highlighted, transforming her into a figure of utmost importance and beauty, akin to a queen. This comparison not only reflects Wendell Junior's admiration for his mother but also his aspiration to showcase her in the best possible light, elevating her status and capturing her in a way that exemplifies her significance within the family.
The headteacher holding her ruler
The simile "She looked meaner than the headteacher when she’s walking down the corridor holding her ruler" conveys the intensity of Mavis' anger and stern demeanor. By likening her mother's appearance to that of a headteacher walking down a corridor with a ruler, Princess highlights the severity of the situation. The headteacher, often perceived as authoritative and disciplinarian is visualized as holding a ruler, a symbol of punishment and authority in a school setting. This simile implies that her mother's expression was so stern and strict that it rivaled the formidable aura of a headteacher about to administer discipline.
A lot of heart
The metaphor "Yes but she got a lot of heart too" paints a nuanced picture of Mavis' character. This metaphor implies that while Mavis might exhibit a tough or stern exterior, she possesses a strong sense of compassion, empathy, and kindness within her. The heart, in this context, symbolizes not only the physical organ but also the emotional core of a person. Margot's words convey the idea that Mavis's caring and nurturing nature might not always be immediately visible but it's an integral part of who she is. The metaphor showcases the duality of Mavis's personality, depicting her as someone who can be both assertive and soft-hearted. This depth adds dimension to Mavis's character, highlighting her complexity beyond her initial tough appearance.
Cry like a baby
The simile "Mummy is going to beat you and you gone cry like a baby" vividly illustrates the anticipated outcome of their impending confrontation. By comparing Wendell Junior's expected reaction to crying like a baby, Princess suggests that he will not only experience physical pain but also display a level of emotional vulnerability akin to that of a young child. This simile not only conveys the potential severity of the punishment but also alludes to the idea that Wendell Junior's bravado might crumble under the impending discipline of his mother.
Thieves in the night
The simile "You two thick as thieves in the night" is used by Mavis to describe the strong bond between Wendell Junior and Leon who have been acting in a closely connected and secretive manner. The phrase "thick as thieves" indicates a deep and conspiratorial relationship, suggesting that the two individuals are united in a way that they keep secrets, share plans, or engage in activities together. The addition of "in the night" emphasizes the covert nature of their connection, hinting that their interactions occur when they believe their actions might go unnoticed. This simile also carries a note of caution or suspicion from Mavis who seems to be questioning their intentions.
