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How Does Sharon Olds Use Imagery In On The Subway

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On the Subway Sharon Olds depicts the harsh realities of our world. Some may believe whites have privilege over other races; however, Olds tells the story in a way that challenges that notion. Old’s use of imagery and simile help the reader understand the contrast between the white and black world. Olds uses imagery in describing the (black) male. “Casual cold look of a mugger… hooded lids.” “…wearing red, like the inside of the body exposed”. These phrases show the cold, hopelessness of the man. Olds then goes on to say the woman is wearing “dark fur, the whole skin of an animal taken and used”. That automatically tells the reader the woman is privileged and the man is less fortunate. In addition, the author uses parallel structure to show
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