“thighs…Twin slopes rising”
In this metaphor, the narrator in “A Blue Ribbon Affair” outlines Bertie’s ideation of Joyce’s thighs. The term slopes implies that Joyce’s thighs are well proportioned; hence, they would quench his sexual desire.
“Like a fouled and empty last’s nest”
This simile refers to the blue-ribbon on the death lady’s face. The simile creates an imagery of an intact ribbon, which transcends the lifelessness of its wearer.
“Doorknob which was a hard lump”
In this metaphor, the doctor in “The Consultation” likens the knob on the door to the lump in Gloria’s breast. The hardness is useful in further highlighting the hostility of the lump and implying hesitantly that the lump may metastasize.
