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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 Purple Hibiscus
Chapter 2
Explanation and Analysis—Melting Sugar:
Kambili’s deep longing for her father’s approval sometimes makes her say somewhat insincere things. Adichie uses a simile to show the emotional power Eugene holds over Kambili:
‘God will deliver us,’ I said, knowing Papa would like my saying that.
‘Yes, yes,’ Papa said, nodding. Then he reached out and held my hand, and I felt as though my mouth were full of melting sugar.
Related Themes:
Explanation and Analysis—Coconut Breaking:
Adichie uses a simile and visual imagery to explore Kambili’s conflicted feelings toward seeing her father’s beaming smile at church:
Unlock with LitCharts A+It was the same way I felt when he smiled, his face breaking open like a coconut with the brilliant white meat inside.
Related Themes:
Chapter 4
Explanation and Analysis—Jellylike:
Adichie uses vivid imagery and simile to describe the involuntary movements of Eugene’s aging body, which seem out of place in his rigidly controlled world:
Unlock with LitCharts A+As he climbed the stairs in his red silk pajamas, his buttocks quivered and shook like akamu, properly made akamu, jellylike.
Related Themes:
Chapter 8
Explanation and Analysis—Musical Voice:
As Kambili listens to Father Amadi speak about the “apparitions” of the Virgin Mary in Aokpe, the narrative uses hyperbole and simile to convey Kambili’s infatuation with his beautiful speaking voice:
Unlock with LitCharts A+He spoke so effortlessly, as if his mouth were a musical instrument that just let sound out when touched, when opened.
Related Themes:
Chapter 11
Explanation and Analysis—Meat and Bones:
As Eugene “punishes” Kambili for yet another deviation from his strict rules, Adichie uses simile and tactile imagery to portray the physical and emotional violence Kambili endures:
Unlock with LitCharts A+‘Get up!’ Papa said again. I still did not move. He started to kick me. The metal buckles on his slippers stung like bites from giant mosquitoes. He talked nonstop, out of control, in a mix of Igbo and English, like soft meat and thorny bones.
Related Themes:
Chapter 17
Explanation and Analysis—Squeeze the Clouds:
The final sentences of Purple Hibiscus use simile and hyperbole to capture Kambili’s newfound sense of hope and freedom as she and Beatrice travel to pick up Jaja from prison. She’s finally able to envision a better future for herself and her family:
Unlock with LitCharts A+I am laughing. I reach out and place my arm around Mama’s shoulder and she leans toward me and smiles. Above, clouds like dyed cotton wool hang low, so low I feel I can reach out and squeeze the moisture from them. The new rains will come down soon.
Related Themes:
