Language
The language of “Number 40” by Sarah Butler is very descriptive, but it is overall easy to follow. The writer uses a standard voc…
...
Imagery
Because there are multiple descriptive passages, particularly in connection with the setting, imagery is created on several occasions. Readers can easily picture the landscape in Santorini or Simon, for exam…
...
Similes and personification
To convey the character’s perspective on the weather, the author makes use of the following personification: “She watched raindrops chase each other down the bus window.” (l. 7). The personification of raindrops helps construct a vivid image.
Various similes convey deeper meanings about the character and her perspective. The simile used to describe Melissa’s cheeks “like they'd been refrigerated” (l. 29) helps convey th…
...
Repetitions and enumerations
Several enumerations help the author convey more details in a concise manner and to add emphasis. For instance, the following enumeration suggests that Melissa is attached to certain material things and losing them makes h…