Fire Engine (simile)
The simile "like I’m driving a freaking fire engine" is used to express an image of how conspicuous and attention-grabbing Millie's red Hyundai car appears to be. It compares the car's color to that of a fire engine, which is known for its striking appearance. The comparison emphasizes the visibility of the car making it easy to spot and remember. Moreover, the use of "freaking" in the simile adds a slightly emphatic tone creating a humorous image for the reader. This simile serves to illustrate Millie's concern about being identified given the situation involving Wendy and the possibility of someone tracking them.
Ton of Bricks (simile)
The statement "hits me like a ton of bricks" emphasizes the sudden impact of a realization on the narrator. Upon contemplating the potential implications of Wendy's situation, Millie suddenly experiences a deep concern about her safety. The simile is used when Millie reaches the third-floor landing signifying a critical moment where these thoughts come crashing into her mind. This description is made to convey the potential threats Wendy might face from her husband, Douglas. The simile is chosen to describe the emotional and mental impact on Millie. Therefore, it highlights the gravity of the situation for both of them.
Jumping Jacks (metaphor)
The phrase "my heart is doing jumping jacks in my chest" is a metaphor that describes the physical sensation of a rapidly beating heart. Wendy’s encounter with Douglas Garrick juxtaposes their differing opinions on the exhibited artwork. Douglas challenges her perspective by suggesting that the artist aims to challenge traditional norms. As the conversation progresses, Wendy's intentions shift—subtly indicating her strategic approach to seducing Douglas—as indicated by her attire and internal thoughts. The metaphor captures Wendy's nervousness as she speaks to Douglas. It emphasizes the intense beating of her heart, which indicates her heightened emotions.
Pale Sheet (simile)
Wendy is in the middle of orchestrating a plan to eliminate her husband, Douglas. She has meticulously set up a scenario to make it appear as if Millie killed him. As Wendy leads Douglas into their home, she expects Russell to emerge from the kitchen and carry out the murder. However, when Wendy rushes into the kitchen to check on Russell, she finds him in a state of panic. The simile "His face like a sheet," is employed by Wendy to describe Russell's terrified expression. It implies that Russell's face has turned an extremely pale color resembling the whiteness of a sheet. This comparison vividly conveys Russell's shock and fear.
Down Swinging (metaphor)
The metaphor "I’m going to go down swinging" is employed by Wendy as she finds herself in a potentially life-threatening situation. This phrase encapsulates her resolve to confront an imminent threat despite feeling vulnerable. Wendy's circumstances are dire. She is alone in a darkened cabin convinced that an antagonistic figure—whom she initially mistakes for Millie—is pursuing her with malevolent intent. The power outage exacerbates her sense of vulnerability and the imminent danger she perceives. Despite her fear and the absence of a viable means of defense, Wendy mentally prepares herself to confront the perceived assailant.
