Inthe short story ''the guest''

what does this quote mean ''...dirty white snow...''(Camus 9)

Explain the quote interms of the figurative device.

what is the theme?
How does it connect to human nature?

pls i really need your help. this work is due tomorow

You may find good ideas in here:

http://www.google.com/search?aq=f&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&q=camus+%22the+guest%22

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxymoron

In the short story "The Guest" by Albert Camus, the quote "dirty white snow" appears on page 9. To understand the meaning of this quote, we need to analyze it in terms of the figurative device used.

In this case, the figurative device being employed is a juxtaposition of seemingly contradictory elements, called an oxymoron. The words "dirty" and "white" suggest contrasting ideas. While snow is conventionally associated with purity and cleanliness, the addition of "dirty" implies a contradiction—a contamination or impurity that disrupts this conventional view.

The use of the oxymoron "dirty white snow" in the story can be seen as a reflection of the dissonance and moral ambiguity present within the narrative. It alludes to the conflicts and complexities faced by the characters, particularly the main protagonist, Daru, as he grapples with difficult choices and the contradictory nature of his circumstances.

As for the theme of the story, one of the prominent themes in "The Guest" is the notion of existentialism, which explores the individual's search for meaning and the responsibility they have in creating their own values. This theme connects to human nature by highlighting the struggle individuals face when confronted with moral decisions and the consequences that follow.

In the case of Daru, the main character, his encounter with the Arab prisoner forces him to confront the complexities of his role as a person responsible for making choices. This theme reveals the inherent existential dilemma faced by humanity—our freedom to choose and the burden of responsibility that comes along with it.

To further understand the theme and its connection to human nature, it might be helpful to consider the choices made by Daru and the subsequent effects those choices have on him and his perception of the world. Exploring Daru's inner conflicts, his struggle with loyalty, morality, and responsibility will shed light on the larger theme of existentialism and its relevance to human nature.

Remember, when analyzing literature, it is important to carefully read and interpret the text, paying attention to the author's choice of language, figurative devices, and the overall context in which the quote or theme appears.