Eggs
References to eggs are plentiful in this novel. The omnipresence of eggs for both literal and figurative purposes is indicative of the state of living for people at this time of history. Eggs so dominated the daily diet that it is only natural they would become a staple of metaphorical imagery as well, especially as philosophical contemplation:
“What is done is done; and the egg cracked cannot be cured."
Eyes
Imagery of eyes is also prevalent. This also makes sense within the context of the story which rides along a foundation of suspicion borne by fear which develops into paranoia. The Merry Men operate as underground freedom fighters who must always be on constant alert for the long arm of the law while their presence stimulates the fears of the Sheriff and the usurper of the crown:
"Why, how now!" cried the stout Friar, "what means this? Art thou wizard to turn those wolves into lambs? Ha!" cried he, when they had come still nearer, "can I trust mine eyes? What means it that I see young Master William Gamwell in such company?"
Fatness
Even including Friar Tuck and Little John, references to fatness are associated with negativity. Fatness is constantly used in metaphor and description to indicate character faults from sloth to greed:
“He who is fat from overliving must needs lose blood.”
“I take my tithes from fat priests and lordly squires, to help those that they despoil”
Darkness
Imagery of darkness is peppered throughout the narrative to underscore the theme of change which can be brought about my political fortune. Robin and his merry band are operating in the absence of the light of the good king whose leadership has been usurped by the dark ambitions of his brother:
“The Knight shook his head with a faint smile, but for all that, Robin's words made him more blithe of heart, for in truth hope, be it never so faint, bringeth a gleam into darkness, like a little rushlight that costeth but a groat.”
“A man that walketh in the darkness as thou dost may escape for a time, but in the end he will surely fall into the pit.”
