In Scott O’Dell’s novel Island of the Blue Dolphins, the ocean is vividly portrayed through various metaphors that capture its beauty and peril. Two prominent metaphors that stand out are:
- “The ocean was a great blue blanket.” This metaphor illustrates the ocean’s vastness and how it envelops the island like a comforting cover. It evokes a sense of security and peace, highlighting the ocean’s gentle yet powerful nature.
- “The ocean was a restless spirit.” Here, the ocean is depicted as alive and dynamic, suggesting its unpredictability and the constant motion of the waves. This metaphor conveys the idea that the ocean has its own will and can change rapidly, reflecting the challenges and dangers the protagonist faces.
These metaphors not only enhance the imagery of the ocean but also mirror the inner struggles and isolation experienced by the characters throughout the story.