Patricia Highsmith’s novel, “The Price of Salt,” is rich in a combination of metaphors that weaves through the narrative, thus helping contribute to the extensive exploration of complicated societal norms, emotions, and the evolving identities of the characters. One of the main metaphorical terms that run through the text is using “color” to represent the emotional state and look at society’s constraints on the characters. “Near the door, they met some people Richard knew from the League, a young man, a girl, and a young colored man. Richard introduced Therese to them.” (Highsmith, 2004). There is a continuous instance when emotions are compared to colors, which provides a slightly evocative landscape for the readers to navigate. A good example is the protagonist, Therese, who often sees the world in muted tones, reflecting her internal struggles and societal suppression of what she truly desires. This metaphorical choice enhances the sensory experience for the reader while serving as a subtle commentary on the limitations imposed by societal expectations.
Additionally, Highsmith introduces another recurring metaphor that involves mirrors and reflection. This is very interesting as it stands as a symbol of self-identity and discovery. The mirror is portrayed as an object or tool that the characters utilize to confront their true selves while also glancing at the struggles and internal conflicts accompanied by desires hidden from the outside world. “Therese glanced around her room and at her face in the mirror and decided to let it all go.” (Highsmith, 2004). The metaphor adds depth to the narrative, allowing the readers to dig deep into the character’s drive while trying to understand the intertwined layers of their personalities. Another strained, well-structured, and contradictory use of the metaphor can be traced to when Therese sees herself in the mirror but struggles to recognize the reflection. This highlights the internal struggles and challenges of embracing one’s authentic identity, especially in a society where conformity is demanded.
Another complicated use of metaphor that is so extended is the use and concept of the journey that takes place both in the physical and emotional sphere. Therese and Carol embark on a road trip that serves as a metaphor for escaping societal norms and pursuing personal freedom. Each mile these characters cover represents the steps taken towards self-discovery and forming an original path, while the road becomes the main symbol of liberation (Highsmith, 2004). This metaphor does several things in the text; first of all, it propels the plot forward while at the same time serving as commentary that many people find powerful when it comes to commentary of the societal constraints that individuals face when they try to deviate from what I expected. The journey becomes a transformative experience, and the metaphor of the road can be used to create new meanings by emphasizing the importance of forging one’s path and not paying much attention to the uncertainties and challenges ahead.
In James Baldwin’s novel “Giovanni’s Room,” metaphors are potent tools for exploring complex themes of identity, desire, and societal expectations. One of the prominent metaphors that keeps on recurring revolves around the room itself. The use of the ‘room’ symbolizes secrecy, confinement, and internal struggles that the protagonist, David, goes through. The room becomes a metaphorical prison, reflecting the struggles that he has to face due to struggles with sexuality and societal norms (Baldwin, 1956). Baldwin ingeniously uses this metaphor to underscore the psychological confinement experienced by individuals who are forced to hide their true selves because of being different from what society expects.
Another metaphor that keeps on recurring is the contrast between light and darkness, which is used to show how David has to exist in two spheres. Light symbolizes the authenticity and freedom one is supposed to have. At the same time, darkness signifies shame, secrecy, and suppression that society puts on people they feel do not conform to the expectations. Baldwin employs this metaphor to highlight David’s internal conflict between embracing his true identity and conforming to societal expectations (Baldwin, 1956). The use and interplay between darkness and light add interest to the narrative to reveal the complexity of David’s inner world and the limitations he encounters in navigating his desires.
The metaphors in this text function as the coaction between the characters’ external and internal worlds. This aids in providing the readers with a lens they can use to interpret their experiences. Metaphors can be compared to means of transport, such as a vehicle used to pass across complex emotions and societal drift in a more sensible and relatable manner. What surprises me is how these metaphors can trigger unexpected emotions and connections. For example, this may seem ordinary at first when comparing emotions to color, but Highsmith infuses it with a slickness that surprises the reader with their depth and nicety. The unique and unexpected layering of meaning by using metaphors makes the overall reading experience enjoyable and invites the readers to get involved in the text more profoundly.
Moreover, Highsmith strategically employs metaphors to challenge societal norms and expectations. There are some examples, but the focus should be on using mirrors. The metaphorical use of the mirror serves as a commentary on the pressure exerted by society on individuals to conform to curtained predefined roles. Another part worth noting is how the strained and contradictory metaphors sometimes take note of the tension between societal expectations and individual desires. One particularly striking metaphor in James Baldwin’s novel “Giovanni’s Room” is the comparison between Giovanni and a caged bird. This metaphor appears strained and contradictory at first glance, as Giovanni is depicted as a symbol of liberation and entrapment for David (Baldwin, 1956). This tension creates a sense of unease and discomfort that reflects the characters’ experiences.
This intentional use of metaphors employed to come up with problems within the narrative adds complexity and, at the same time, exploration of identity and societal norms. Highsmith’s novel goes beyond a simple love story, delving deeply into themes of identity, societal norms, and the consequences of defying convention and predetermined expectations by society. By reading through the novel and slowly examining the metaphors used at various instances within the narrative, the readers can uncover the detailed exploration of these themes. The metaphors such as mirror, room, light and darkness, color, and journey are narrative tools to create depth and make storytelling complex. By employing these metaphors, Highsmith creates a multi-layered narrative that resonates with readers on an emotional level. The metaphor mirror shows the complexities of identity and how characters search for self-discovery. Similarly, the use of color, for instance, allows for an elaborate portrayal of various characters’ struggles and how society puts pressure on them. Through these metaphors, Highsmith crafts a variety of emotions and experiences, inviting readers to think through the intricacies of human existence and the price one pays for authenticity in a world governed by predetermined societal expectations.
In conclusion, Patricia Highsmith’s novel, “The Price of Salt, or Carol,” and James Baldwin’s novel, “Giovanni’s Room,” showcase the author’s use of metaphors to convey complex emotions, deepen the narrative, and challenge societal norms. The recurring metaphors create an engaging, immersive, and cohesive reading experience that allows readers to engage with the characters at profound and emotional levels. The surprise in these metaphors lies in their ability to surpass clichés, offering fresh perspectives and insights into the character’s internal struggles and societal challenges. Using metaphors, Baldwin and Highsmith elevate their novels from a mere love story to an enriched exploration of identity, freedom, and the intricacies of human connection.
References
Baldwin, J. (1956). Giovanni’s Room:
Highsmith, P. (2004). The Price of Salt, or Carol. WW Norton & Company.
write