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Allegory
Definition of Allusion
In literature, an allusion is an unexplained reference to someone or something outside of the text. Writers commonly allude to other literary works, famous individuals, historical events, or philosophical ideas... read full definition
In literature, an allusion is an unexplained reference to someone or something outside of the text. Writers commonly allude to other literary works, famous individuals... read full definition
In literature, an allusion is an unexplained reference to someone or something outside of the text. Writers commonly allude to... read full definition
Key Examples in Jasper Jones
Chapter 5
Explanation and Analysis—Atticus or Tom:
In Chapter 5, Charlie reflects with skepticism on Jasper's insistence that Jack Lionel killed Laura. He uses a pair of allusions that demonstrate his sense that his life is an allegory :
Of course, it’s an attractive notion: pinning it all on the town recluse with the shady history. But it seems so filled with coincidence and chance. It seems too convenient. Then again, maybe the simplest answer really is the most accurate. I wonder too if Jasper actually needs my help. Whether he came to my window looking for Atticus Finch or Tom Sawyer. A brain or an ally. Maybe both.
Related Themes:
Chapter 6
Explanation and Analysis—Gatling Gun Rain:
In Chapter 6, Charlie and his parents play cards to calm down after Wesley helps stop a violent assault on An Lu. Charlie uses imagery to convey the tension he feels in the room, building on a metaphor his father introduces:
Unlock with LitCharts A+“I don’t think there’ll be any need [to add up points].” My dad tosses his cards onto the table. “This spells the end for us, Charlie. Time to surrender. We’ve been plundered. To bed with ye.”
I get up. And as I do, there are sudden Gatling gun pops on our roof. We all flinch and look up. It’s raining. Slow, then a heavy barrage. Fat silver sheets of it. I can see it through the kitchen window. It silences us for a time. “Hell’s bells,” says my father. “It’s really coming down.”
Related Themes:
Chapter 8
Explanation and Analysis—Golightly Voice:
Throughout the novel, Charlie periodically notices a strange voice Eliza affects, almost as though she has a posh accent from somewhere other than her native Corrigan. In Chapter 8, Charlie connects the dots between this motif and Eliza's frequent allusions to Breakfast at Tiffany's:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Every so often, when she’s particularly low or sad, or thinking on horrible things, that curious accent of hers returns. But I think I understand it now. I’ve seen the film. I know the flippant and frivolous manner, the snips of scenes. The Golightly voice, it’s a wily vice. Eliza WishArt. So I don’t ever say anything. I let it pass.
Related Themes:
