Language

The short story “The Whaler” by Joe Sheerin is written in a simple and straightforward language. There are a few words written in the Gaelic dialect, like…

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Imagery

Imagery is present mostly when the boy describes his heroic dreams about the Whaler, like in the following example. Here, visual and auditory imagery help readers better visualise…

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Metaphors

Metaphors are used when the boy talks about the way he sees the Whaler. For hi…

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Symbols

Symbols are also present in the story and their purpose is to help readers understand the relationship between the boy and the Whaler. First of all, the Whaler himself is at first a symbol of power, masculinity, and invincibility. Through the stories he has heard about the Whaler, the boy has created a hero of his imagination, one whom he finds hard to let go of. However, as he finds out the truth about his hero, the Whaler comes to symbolise failed dreams and pressure to meet others’ expectations.

Mrs Early is yet another important symbol in the story. Initially, she sym…