Without a care in the world (Metaphor)
When the visitors came to offer condolences to Eugene’s parents, they noticed that Arnold sat quietly in a rocking chair. He was not crying or shaking, so they assumed that he didn’t “give a hoot” about his brother’s death.
Sunrise (Metaphor)
When Eugene and Arnold left the house, the sun still had “to climb a long way to show itself”. It was still too early and even their parents were still sound asleep. The reason why the boys had to get up at that ungodly hour were peas, for it has to be picked up early in the morning.
Relax (Metaphor)
Although Arnold tried to ignore his parents and pretend that he didn’t care what they thought about him anymore, “relief rained over his shoulders” at the thought that his parents “recognized him again”. It was a small comfort but comfort nonetheless.
Almost a man (Simile)
Arnold loved his brother but what he didn’t like was his patronizing behavior. However, Eugene, who “was as tall as his father”, had such a right, for he was almost a grown-up man.
Cries (Simile)
Arnold’s mother was terrified, for she couldn’t believe that one of her sons was dead. Sounds “as sharp as knives” were rising from the mother’s breasts. It was a great tragedy for every member of the family, but specially for Arnold.
Dead (Simile)
The rifle fired and its loud sound disturbed quietness of the morning. Then silence was restored and Arnold saw his brother was lying face down in the pasture. The boy called his name but Eugene “was as still as the morning about them”.
