Discuss The Significance Of The Main Conflict In Homecoming

A. Character Analysis: The novel Homecoming by Cynthia Voigt centers on four siblings - Dicey, James, Maybeth, and Sammy - who are abandoned by their mother in a mall parking lot. The story follows their journey as they try to find a way to survive and create a new home for themselves. Dicey is the eldest and takes on the role of caregiver for her siblings. She is strong-willed, determined, and resourceful. James is sensitive, intelligent, and often retreats into his own world. Maybeth is shy and introverted, but has a special talent for music. Sammy is the youngest and relies on his siblings for protection and care. Each of the characters goes through their own personal growth and development as they navigate the challenges of their new life.

Conflict: The main conflict in the novel is the siblings' struggle to survive after being abandoned by their mother. They face numerous obstacles such as hunger, homelessness, and the threat of being separated by the authorities. Along the way, they encounter both helpful and harmful individuals, and must learn to rely on each other to overcome their challenges.

C. Figurative Language:

a. Device #1 ALLUSION: There are several instances of allusion in the novel. For example, when the siblings are searching for a place to stay, Dicey thinks to herself, "Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It sounded like such a fine idea when Thomas Jefferson wrote it down, a hundred and fifty years ago" (Voigt 24). This is an allusion to the Declaration of Independence, which highlights the idea of individual freedoms and rights.

b. Device #2 SIMILE: Cynthia Voigt also employs similes to enhance the imagery in her writing. When the siblings are traveling along a country road, they encounter a farmer who gives them a ride. Voigt writes, "The truck swayed like a boat on waves, jolting them" (Voigt 70). This simile creates a vivid picture in the reader's mind of the bumpy ride in the old