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Definition of Foreshadowing
Foreshadowing is a literary device in which authors hint at plot developments that don't actually occur until later in the story. Foreshadowing can be achieved directly or indirectly, by making... read full definition
Foreshadowing is a literary device in which authors hint at plot developments that don't actually occur until later in the story. Foreshadowing can be achieved... read full definition
Foreshadowing is a literary device in which authors hint at plot developments that don't actually occur until later in the... read full definition
Chapter 8
Explanation and Analysis—Clay and Marble:
In Chapter 8, Jacob Kahn justifies his desire to mentor Asher with the following simile:
All artists are selfish and self-centered. I am taking you on because I will derive pleasure in molding your greatness, just as I derive pleasure in molding clay and marble.
The simile in this example—Jacob molding Asher's career "just as I derive pleasure in molding clay and marble"—sees Jacob compare his protege to a work of art he is in the process of creating. This passage helps establish the complex relationship between Asher and Jacob, marked by both unconditional love and calculated transaction. Despite acting as a stand-in for Asher's unaccepting family, Jacob partially invests his time in Asher because he has something to gain from Asher's success. He reminds Asher repeatedly that there is money to be made as Asher's mentor who helps him get opportunities in the art world.
Later in the story, Asher outpaces Jacob in terms of both talent and fame. As Jacob fades into obscurity, Asher soars to new heights, and Jacob gets jealous. In this way, this passage also foreshadows just how transactional their relationship will be revealed to be—that even though Asher and Jacob have a special bond, it will always be based on selfishness to some degree.
Related Themes:
