The predominant imagery in chapter eight is that of fire and death imagery. This imagery is used to symbolize how Said is burdened by the weight of his past crimes, “assailed by memories that rushed into his mind like roaring flames” (208). His exhaustion and helplessness is also described by the Sheikh, “just like a child laid under the fire of the blazing sun. Your burning heart yearns for shade, yet continues forward under the fire of the sun” (209). Furthermore, Said is stated as being “alive but without real life. Like a mummy” (211). Towards the end of the chapter traces of animal imagery are present, this is seen with the line of “he’d have to flee like a rat from one hole to another” (211). This animal imagery is used in a similar manner as in previous chapters, with several negative connotations. Said is described as being a rat, referring to how he is forced to run and hide from danger. This contradicts earlier descriptions of Said which depict him as cunning and strong; instead, Said is seen in a more desperate light.
Chapter Eight – Imagery
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