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Hyperbole
Definition of Idiom
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on a literal interpretation of the words in the phrase. For... read full definition
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on a literal interpretation of the... read full definition
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on... read full definition
Part 3, Chapter 4
Explanation and Analysis—Hatred of the Adder:
As John describes his time spent caring for Florence’s “weak heart,” Ford uses an idiom to convey John’s complex feelings toward Florence after her affair and his long stint as her nurse:
You cannot, you see, have acted as nurse to a person for twelve years without wishing to go on nursing them, even though you hate them with the hatred of the adder [...]
Related Themes:
Part 4, Chapter 6
Explanation and Analysis—Good Form:
In the novel’s final sentence, Ford uses an idiom and situational irony to capture the protagonist’s concerns about maintaining social propriety and a stiff upper lip, even in the face of impending tragedy:
Unlock with LitCharts A+I didn’t know what to say. I wanted to say, “God bless you,” for I also am a sentimentalist. But I thought that perhaps that would not be quite English good form, so I trotted off with the telegram to Leonora. She was quite pleased with it.
Related Themes:
