The voyage
The voyage from London to South America is a metaphor for the development of Rachel's character. Throughout the text, she becomes more independent and thinks critically, which is metaphorically represented by the physical journey she is on.
The power of music
When Helen is dancing to Rachel's music she is described as being "like a child skipping through a meadow." This shows how carefree Helen feels while dancing, and confirms Rachel's conclusion that music makes people comfortable and helps them to express their true selves.
The Thames
The Thames river in London is described as "sometimes sparkling blue like the sea." This simile gives a powerful visual indication of what the river sometimes looks like, making it seem appealing. This is a rare positive description of London in the text.
Misery simile
A simile is used to describe Helen's state of mind as she prepares to depart London for South America, leaving her two children behind: "Her mind was like a wound exposed to dry in the air." She is not only affected by the thought of being separated from her children but is also negatively impacted by her surroundings, which leads to her feeling vulnerable and miserable.
