Nickel And Dimed Language Analysis

Simile:
“True, I don’t look so good by the end of the day ... but it’s the brilliant green-and-yellow uniform that gives me away, like prison clothes on a fugitive.” (Ehrenreich 100)

In comparing the obviousness of Ehrenreich’s maid outfit, to that of a Prisoner’s, a simile is utilized. This is a smooth and effective way of comparing the two, and adds to somewhat ornate language in Nickel and Dimed. This witty comparison, along with many others, provides for greater depth of the reader’s thoughts, as well as allowing for a greater understanding of the story’s overarching plot.

Allusion:
“...then it 's another eight hours spent following Mao 's central instruction, as laid out in the Little Red Book, which was: Serve the people.” (Ehrenreich 18)

In this portion, Ehrenreich alludes to Communist Chinese leader Mao Zedong’s Little Red Book. To those

This is done solely for the purpose of villainizing corporations, and adding beast-like features as well. In addition, this personification victimizes the human working class, as they are represented as the prey, and Wal-Mart and the predator.

Imagery:
“...the blue of the lakes merging with the blue of the sky, neatly sculpted clouds pasted here and there, strips of farmland in alternating chartreuse and emerald-a lush, gentle landscape, seemingly penetrable from any angle.” (Ehrenreich 121)

In analyzing her newest setting, Ehrenreich goes into description of Minnesota, more specifically, the physical nature of such state. This device allows the reader to feel as if they are experiencing what the author is experiencing, and once again allows for a better understanding of the story’s complete plot. Without imagery, the story would feel dull and