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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
Key Examples in Girl, Interrupted
Chapter 16: Another Lisa
Explanation and Analysis—Susanna's Diagnosis:
When describing her character disorder diagnosis in Chapter 16, Kaysen uses a simile to compare herself to a defective household object:
Cynthia was depressive; Polly and Georgina were schizophrenic; I had a character disorder. Sometimes they called it a personality disorder. When I got my diagnosis it didn't sound serious, but after a while it sounded more ominous than other people's. I imagined my character as a plate or shirt that had been manufactured incorrectly and was therefore
useless.
Related Themes:
Chapter 23: Bare Bones
Explanation and Analysis—Wall of Water:
When Susanna starts gnawing at her hand in Chapter 23, Valerie, one of the nurses, administers her Thorazine to calm her down. Kaysen recalls the experience using a paradox and a simile:
Unlock with LitCharts A+“Oh, Valerie,” I said, “you promised—” Then the Thorazine hit me. It was like a wall of water, strong but soft.
Related Themes:
