Here's why it's difficult to find clear-cut metaphors in "Tangerine":
* The book focuses on imagery and symbolism. Bloor paints vivid pictures with his words, but he doesn't always use direct comparisons. For example, the tangerine itself is a powerful symbol of Erik's family, but it's not explicitly stated as such.
* Metaphors are subtle. The story is told from Erik's perspective, and his understanding of the world is often fragmented. The metaphors he uses might be more implied than stated.
Instead of focusing on metaphors, it's more helpful to consider the following:
* Symbolism: The tangerine, Erik's glasses, the soccer field, the "tangerine tree," and the constant presence of rain are all important symbols that hold meaning in the book.
* Imagery: Bloor's writing is rich with sensory details. Pay attention to how he describes the sights, sounds, smells, and textures of the world Erik experiences.
* Themes: The themes of family, identity, truth, and justice are explored throughout the book. These themes are often expressed through the symbols and imagery Bloor uses.
Example:
The tangerine is a powerful symbol throughout the novel, representing:
* Erik's connection to his family, especially his brother Paul
* Erik's growing sense of self-awareness
* The bittersweet nature of Erik's life, marked by both joy and sorrow
Instead of finding a specific metaphor about the tangerine, you might find yourself analyzing the way Bloor uses the tangerine imagery to convey these themes throughout the book.
Remember: Identifying metaphors and analyzing their meaning is an important skill for reading literature. But don't be afraid to look beyond the literal meaning of words to understand the deeper layers of the story.