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Irony
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
Chapter 3: Boys & Girls
Explanation and Analysis—Balloon:
As Esperanza wishes for a best friend, she metaphorically refers to herself as a red balloon tied to an anchor:
Someday I will have a best friend all my own. One I can tell my secrets to. One who will understand my jokes without my having to explain them. Until then I am a red balloon, a balloon tied to an anchor.
Related Themes:
Chapter 4: My Name
Explanation and Analysis—Esperanza:
Esperanza explains both what her name literally means—hope—as well as what it figuratively means, making use of both metaphor and simile to do so:
Unlock with LitCharts A+In English my name means hope. In Spanish it means too many letters. It means sadness, it means waiting. It is like the number nine. A muddy color. It is the Mexican records my father plays on Sunday mornings when he is shaving, songs like sobbing.
Related Themes:
