The Jungle Book

by Rudyard Kipling

The Jungle Book: Idioms 2 key examples

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
1. Mowgli’s Brothers
Explanation and Analysis—A Dog's Son:

When Shere Khan speaks to the Council of Animals, Bagheera demonstrates his extreme dislike of the tiger through an idiomatic metaphor: 

Bagheera lay close to Mowgli, and the fire-pot was between Mowgli’s knees. When they were all gathered together, Shere Khan began to speak – a thing he would never have dared to do when Akela was in his prime. ‘He has no right,’ whispered Bagheera. ‘Say so. He is a dog’s son. He will be frightened.’

7. The White Seal
Explanation and Analysis—My Wig!:

The idiom "My wig!" that Kotick uses in this passage from “The White Seal” humorously captures his surprise and astonishment after a challenging swim to the Sea-Cows' hidden paradise:

'My wig!’ he said, when he rose, gasping and puffing, into open water at the farther end. ‘It was a long dive, but it was worth it.'

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