My Children! My Africa!
by Athol Fugard

My Children! My Africa!: Metaphors 3 key examples

Definition of Metaphor

A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two different things by saying that one thing is the other. The comparison in a metaphor can be stated explicitly, as... read full definition
A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two different things by saying that one thing is the other. The comparison in a metaphor... read full definition
A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two different things by saying that one thing is the other... read full definition
Act 1, Scene 4
Explanation and Analysis—The Animal Hope:

In Act 1, Scene 4, Mr. M uses a metaphor to describe his state of emotional turmoil:

Because one of those animals, the one called Hope, has broken loose and is looking for food. [...] It is as dangerous as Hate and Despair would be if they ever managed to break out. You think I’m exaggerating? Pushing my metaphor a little too far? Then I’d like to put you inside a black skin and ask you to keep Hope alive, find food for it on these streets where our children, our loved and precious children go hungry and die of malnutrition.

Act 1, Scene 5
Explanation and Analysis—Fishing for Trouble:

In Act 1, Scene 5, Mr. M foreshadows the upcoming boycott with a metaphor: 

Trouble, Isabel. I’m sorry to say it, but I’m fishing for Trouble and I’m trying to catch it before it gets too big.

Unlock with LitCharts A+
Act 1, Scene 6
Explanation and Analysis—Freedom as Medicine:

In Act 1, Scene 6, Thami explains why he no longer wants to be a doctor, using a metaphor in the process:

I don't need to go to university to learn what my people really need is a strong double-dose of that traditional old Xhosa remedy called “Inkululeko.” Freedom.

Unlock with LitCharts A+