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Setting
Definition of Simile
A simile is a figure of speech that directly compares two unlike things. To make the comparison, similes most often use the connecting words "like" or "as," but can also... read full definition
A simile is a figure of speech that directly compares two unlike things. To make the comparison, similes most often use the connecting words "like... read full definition
A simile is a figure of speech that directly compares two unlike things. To make the comparison, similes most often... read full definition
Chapter 1
Explanation and Analysis—Nolan as Vicar:
After the welcoming ceremonies that begin the school year, Dean Nolan is compared to a vicar as he watches the students say goodbye to their parents:
Like a vicar standing outside of church on Sunday, Dean Nolan watched students and parents say their good-byes.
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Chapter 4
Explanation and Analysis—Like Robots:
Chapter 4 details the first day of classes, and Kleinbaum uses a simile to describe the way the students answer questions in class:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Hands flew into the air, students stood up and sat down like robots, reeling off answers, staunchly taking harsh reprimands for mistakes.
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Chapter 6
Explanation and Analysis—Drip like Honey:
In Chapter 6, Mr. Keating describes the Dead Poets Society to Neil, Charlie, Meeks, Pitts, Cameron, and Todd using alliteration and simile:
Unlock with LitCharts A+And believe me, we didn’t simply read… we let it drip from our tongues like honey. Women swooned, spirits soared…
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Chapter 7
Explanation and Analysis—As if in a Sanctuary:
Kleinbaum uses a simile when describing the first meeting of the Dead Poets Society in Chapter 7:
Unlock with LitCharts A+The boys stood silently, as if in a holy sanctuary
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Chapter 13
Explanation and Analysis—Neil Awaiting Execution:
In Chapter 13, Kleinbaum describes Neil being driven home by his parents after the play with a simile eerily reminiscent of a metaphor from Chapter 8:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Mr. Perry started the car and pulled off. Through the car window, Neil looked like a prisoner being taken to his execution.
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