Old Western (metaphor)
The metaphor of a “frontier town in an old Western” describes the wedding photographs of O'Toole's parents. It captures the displacement and change that was occurring in Ireland at the time. The temporary church demonstrates this transition with its blank concrete blocks and lack of history representing a land without title deeds or established traditions. The wedding itself becomes a kind of claim stake as if O'Toole's parents were settlers trying to establish themselves in an unknown territory. By comparing these events to those experienced by settlers on America's western frontier, O'Toole stresses the uncertainty that was present in Irish society. He also indicates that his parents were not truly emigrants but rather colonists in their own country. This comparison speaks to both the upheaval and hope that characterized life during this period of Irish history.
Guiding Spirit (metaphor)
The author uses a metaphor to compare Ernest Blythe's role in running the Abbey Theater to that of a "guiding spirit" of fascism. Through this comparison of a guiding spirit, O'Toole affirms that Blythe was an influential figure who had a strong hand in controlling what content was allowed at the theater. He further accentuates this point by noting how Blythe's primary concern was ensuring that plays that promoted Gaelic revival were performed and any plays which disturbed his vision for Ireland were rejected. The metaphor is meant to highlight that Blythe had a heavy-handed approach when it came to censorship and control over what could be presented on stage, much like how fascist regimes are known for their oppressive control over individuals and societies.
Messiah (metaphor)
O'Toole uses the metaphor of a "messiah" to describe President Kennedy's power and influence over the masses of Irish people during his visit. This depiction illustrates how the people were eagerly waiting to put up their hands in response to his request for those with relatives in the United States. It also serves as an analogy for Kennedy's status as a symbol of hope and prosperity, which was what he represented at that time. The phrase "blinding Kennedy smile" strengthens this comparison between him and a messiah figure. Therefore, indicates that his presence had such an overwhelming impact on the people that they could not help but be drawn in. While many Irish citizens may have viewed Kennedy as a kind of savior at the time, O'Toole implies that they were so desperate for recognition that they overlooked some of his more dubious tactics. In doing so, he highlights both the positive and negative aspects of Kennedy's legacy in Ireland.
Amphibious (metaphor)
The term "amphibious" is used to depict how the Irish public was able to remain in a state of separation between everyday life and deathly romance. It indicates their ability to stay afloat in both worlds without completely submerging themselves into either one. The implication is that they could keep a distance from deathly romance while still participating in honoring martyrs and blood sacrifice by keeping them buried deep. O'Toole affirms that there was an unspoken understanding between the Irish public and those who had died for what they believed—an understanding of respect for their sacrifices without wanting to be dragged into it fully. However, he shows how that equilibrium has been disturbed with dead bodies no longer content with being prayed for or sung about but rather demanding revenge. As such, it is no longer possible for people to remain amphibious as they are now forced to choose between appeasing and shunning them.
Beached Whale (simile)
O'Toole utilizes a simile to compare the modern Irish country house to "a beached whale, puffing and blowing to assert its presence." This comparison expresses how these bungalows were large and ostentatious structures that stood out from their surroundings. It underscores their dominance by comparing them to a whale, which is generally considered one of the most powerful animals in the ocean. Additionally, this simile also highlights how these new homes had been built with little regard for their impact on the environment or culture—much like how whales can disrupt ecosystems when they beach themselves on land. In conclusion, it illustrates the overwhelming presence of these newly-built bungalows and their disregard for tradition and nature in rural Ireland during the 1970s and 1980s.
