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Alliteration
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 Obasan
Chapter 16
Explanation and Analysis—The Seven Dwarfs:
In Chapter 16, Naomi describes her first impression of the internment hut where her family takes refuge, making an allusion:
The ceiling is so low it reminds me of the house of the seven dwarves. The newspapers lining the walls bend and curl showing rough wood beneath.
Related Themes:
Chapter 23
Explanation and Analysis—Valley of Dry Bones:
In Chapter 23, Naomi reflects on how the once‑empty Slocan settlement has come to life through the energy of the internees, making an allusion:
Unlock with LitCharts A+The ghost town is alive and kicking like Ezekiel’s resurrected valley of bones, the foot bones connected to the ankle bones, the ankle bones connected to the leg bones, and all them bones, them bones, jitterbugging in the Odd Fellows Hall, skating in the rinks, hiking and running up and down the mountainsides and the streets and paths of Slocan.
Related Themes:
Chapter 37
Explanation and Analysis—B-29 Bombings:
In Chapter 37, Naomi confronts the enormity of her family’s loss through a direct historical allusion to World War II:
Unlock with LitCharts A+The following night, Grandma Kato’s sister, their mother and her sister’s husband died in the B-29 bombings of March 9, 1945.
Related Themes:
