In the play, Helen Keller's teacher, Anne Sullivan, uses various methods to teach her language and connect with the world around her. One of these methods involves Helen placing her hand under a strawberry plant and feeling the roots. Anne explains that the roots are like the words that connect everything together, and that by understanding these words, Helen can begin to understand the world.
The metaphor of "under the strawberries" thus represents Helen's journey of discovery and enlightenment. As she learns more about language and the world, she emerges from her dark and isolated existence into a place of greater understanding and connection. It symbolizes her transformation from a child who is trapped in her own mind to a young woman who is able to communicate and engage with others.
Throughout the play, the image of "under the strawberries" serves as a reminder of the power of education and the potential for human growth and development. It encapsulates the idea that even in the midst of great challenges, there is always hope for a better and more fulfilling life.