Metaphor: "The woods were a living thing, breathing and sighing around him."
Explanation:
* Literal Meaning: The woods are simply a collection of trees and plants.
* Figurative Meaning: This metaphor compares the woods to a living creature, giving it human-like qualities of breathing and sighing.
* Effect: This creates a sense of the woods being vast, mysterious, and perhaps even dangerous. It evokes a sense of awe and wonder in the reader, making the setting feel more alive and engaging.
Analysis:
This metaphor effectively captures the sense of wonder and unease that Crispin feels as he travels through the forest. It highlights the vastness and unknown nature of the wilderness, which plays a significant role in the novel.
Other Possible Metaphors:
* "The moon was a silver coin in the black velvet sky." (This compares the moon to a coin, emphasizing its brightness and roundness.)
* "The villagers were sheep, blindly following their shepherd." (This compares the villagers to sheep, suggesting their lack of individuality and their tendency to be led by authority figures.)
These are just a few examples of metaphors used in *Crispin*. Avi frequently employs figurative language to enhance the novel's atmosphere, symbolism, and character development.