Sinking hearts
The metaphor "our hearts were sinking" is used to describe the narrator and his family's disappointment and disillusionment after arriving in Melbourne. They had built up expectations of the city, imagining it to be a vibrant, exciting city, but when they arrived, it was ordinary and unimpressive. The metaphor captures the feeling of deflation as if their hopes and dreams had sunk into their chests, leaving them disappointed. It also conveys the sense of disappointment that comes from not finding something one had been looking forward to, as well as the feeling of let-down that follows.
Like a beetle in front of a semi
This simile compares the experience of surfing a huge wave to being "like a beetle scuttling up the front of a speeding semi.” The beetle is small and insignificant in comparison to the semi, just as the surfer is small and insignificant compared to the huge wave they are attempting to surf. The beetle, like the surfer, is trying to climb something that is much bigger than them and is moving fast. The comparison suggests the feeling of being overwhelmed and out of control, as the beetle has no chance of controlling the semi, just as the surfer has no control over the wave. Additionally, the beetle is in danger of being crushed, just as the surfer is in danger of being overwhelmed by the wave. This simile effectively conveys the feelings of exhilaration and danger experienced by the surfer as they attempt to surf the wave.
Like a damp Christmas cracker
The author compares the sound of his gun, a Lithgow, to a damp Christmas cracker representing the gun's diminished power. Christmas crackers are a festive paper tube-like structure that makes a loud, popping sound when pulled apart. The simile implies that, despite being a weapon of death, the rifle made a distinct sound that, when compared to a damp Christmas cracker, is more muffled and less celebratory. This simile emphasizes the idea that, while the rifle was powerful and lethal, it also had a gentle side.
Clung like a barnacle
The simile "clung like a barnacle" is used to compare the narrator's granddaughter's behavior to that of a barnacle, which is a type of crustacean that attaches itself to rocks and other hard surfaces in the ocean. This comparison serves to emphasize the granddaughter's innocence and vulnerability as she experiences the ocean for the first time. The simile also serves to highlight the narrator's role as a protector and guide, providing a safe environment for the granddaughter to explore the wonders of the ocean.
Driving like a fugitive
The narrator is describing their drive across South Australia. They note that they were driving like a fugitive meaning they were driving recklessly and without regard for traffic laws. This simile is used to emphasize the speed and reckless nature of the narrator's driving, as a fugitive would likely be driving quickly and erratically in order to avoid being caught. Additionally, the simile serves to add drama to the scene, making the narrative more engaging and exciting.
