Use the excerpt from “Tobin’s Palm” by O. Henry to answer the question.
So, to Coney me and Tobin went, thinking that a turn at the chutes and the smell of the popcorn might raise the heart in his bosom. But Tobin was a hardheaded man, and the sadness stuck in his skin. He ground his teeth at the crying balloons; he cursed the moving pictures; and, though he would drink whenever asked, he scorned Punch and Judy, and was for licking the tintype men as they came.
Write a short essay that analyzes how the author uses figurative language to reveal elements of the story’s cultural setting.
In the excerpt from "Tobin's Palm" by O. Henry, the author uses figurative language to reveal elements of the story's cultural setting. Figurative language, such as metaphors and hyperbole, enhance the reader's understanding of the characters and their experiences at Coney Island.
One example of figurative language used in the excerpt is the metaphor "the sadness stuck in his skin." Through this metaphor, O. Henry conveys the deep sorrow and desolation felt by Tobin. The use of "skin" suggests that this sadness is not something temporary, but rather an intrinsic part of Tobin's being. This metaphor not only conveys Tobin's emotional state but also highlights the cultural setting of the story. It suggests that Tobin's depression is deeply embedded in the social and cultural conditions surrounding him, particularly in the environment of Coney Island. This metaphor reflects a larger theme of alienation and despair that may be prevalent in the setting, which could be indicative of the broader cultural context of the time.
Another example of figurative language used is hyperbole, as seen in Tobin's reaction to the various attractions at Coney Island. O. Henry writes, "He ground his teeth at the crying balloons; he cursed the moving pictures... and was for licking the tintype men as they came." These exaggerated reactions emphasize Tobin's dislike and disgust towards the amusement park. By using hyperbole, the author paints a vivid and dramatic picture of Tobin's feelings, highlighting the stark contrast between his melancholic state and the supposed joyousness of the setting. This contrast further reveals the cultural setting of the story, portraying Coney Island as a place of frivolity, amusement, and escape from daily hardships for most people, but not for individuals like Tobin. This highlights the theme of isolation, as Tobin seems to be out of place and unable to find solace even in the attractions that are intended to bring joy to others.
Overall, through the use of figurative language, O. Henry not only emphasizes the emotional state of the character Tobin but also reveals elements of the story's cultural setting. The metaphor of "the sadness stuck in his skin" suggests a broader context of melancholy and alienation in the cultural setting. The hyperbolic reactions of Tobin to the attractions at Coney Island highlight the contrast between his inner turmoil and the supposed carefree atmosphere of the setting. Through these figurative language techniques, the author provides deeper insights into the cultural backdrop against which the story unfolds.