A brown bear
The simile "He looked like a brown bear doing a cooking show inside a cage" conveys a striking image of Patrice's appearance in the cramped kitchen. The simile likens Patrice's presence and actions to that of a brown bear, emphasizing his large and imposing stature which stands out even more in the confined space of the kitchen. Brown bears are known for their size and strength and this comparison highlights Patrice's dominant presence in the room. The mention of him doing a cooking show inside a cage suggests that he is constrained and somewhat out of place in the small kitchen much like a bear performing in an unnatural environment.
A statue of the Buddha
The simile "Each one as inscrutable as a statue of the Buddha" serves to vividly describe the emotional state and demeanor of the individuals in the group therapy session known as the "Survivors." It compares their inscrutability to the statues of the Buddha. Statues of the Buddha are often seen as symbols of tranquility and enlightenment, radiating a serene and composed presence. Therefore, by likening the individuals to these statues, the author conveys that the Survivors are enigmatic and emotionally reserved much like the Buddha's calm and composed countenance.
Tears
The metaphor "Her tears fell across his eyes and healed them" implies that Rapunzel's tears had a magical, curative effect on the prince's blindness. The prince's blindness had been a result of his separation from Rapunzel, a separation caused by the enchantress's actions. When he is finally reunited with her, her tears are not just a physical cure but a representation of the emotional healing and restoration of their relationship. This metaphor conveys the idea that love and connection can have a transformative and redemptive effect, mending what was broken and bringing about a profound change in the characters' lives.
Constellation
In the provided simile "THE THROGS NECK Bridge lit up like a constellation, it loomed like a god," the author employs vivid imagery to emphasize the grandeur and awe-inspiring nature of the Throgs Neck Bridge. By comparing the bridge's illumination to a constellation, the text conjures an image of the bridge's lights scattered across the night sky much like stars in a constellation, creating a visually striking and ethereal image. Furthermore, the simile likens the bridge to a god, emphasizing its divine and imposing presence. The comparison evokes a sense of reverence and wonder, suggesting that the bridge holds a significance and majesty that transcends the ordinary.
The size of a star
The simile "He felt larger, like the size of a star, the sun" serves to convey the intense, overwhelming emotional state of Apollo. This vivid comparison indicates that his fear and desperation have grown to the point where he feels as if they could consume him entirely much like the massive size and gravitational pull of stars or the sun. The simile effectively captures the magnitude of Apollo's inner turmoil, creating a powerful and visceral image for the reader.