In the original novel, The Life You Save May Be Your Own, by Flannery O’Connor, the protagonist, Mr. Lucious Shiftlet, uses a number of different forms of figurative language to express himself. This figurative language is used to communicate both Shiftlet’s innermost thoughts and feelings, as well as to his exterior actions. By utilizing the use of this figurative language, O’Connor is able to convey the personality and character of Mr. Shiftlet both directly and indirectly. In this article, we will discuss some of the ways in which the figurative language used by Mr. Shiftlet develops his character.

Similes

One of the most common ways in which O’Connor uses figurative language to convey Shiftlet’s character is through the use of similes. Similes are comparisons between two objects, people, or concepts that use the words “like” or “as”. In the novel, Mr. Shiftlet calls himself a “drifting leaf”. This simile is used to represent his nomadic lifestyle, as well as to illustrate his lack of purpose in life. By comparing himself to a leaf, Shiftlet conveys a sense of emptiness, as leaves are often associated with transience and lack of commitment.

Metaphors

In addition to similes, O’Connor also uses metaphors to develop Mr. Shiftlet’s character. Metaphors are comparisons between two objects without the use of the words “like” or “as”. In the novel, Mr. Shiftlet is often compared to a snake, which is used to illustrate his predatory nature. This metaphor is used to show how Shiftlet preys on vulnerable people, such as the woman he meets at the beginning of the novel, by taking advantage of their naivety. This further demonstrates Shiftlet’s selfishness, and conveys how he puts his own interests before those of others.

Personification and Hyperbole

The figurative language used by O’Connor to develop Mr. Shiftlet’s character also includes personification and hyperbole. Personification is the use of human qualities to describe non-human objects, and is often used to create a more vivid image of the characters and their actions. In the novel, Shiftlet is often referred to as a “wolf in sheep’s clothing”, personifying the animal to illustrate his cunning and deceitful behavior. Hyperbole, which is the use of exaggerated language for emphasis, is also used to develop Shiftlet’s character. When Shiftlet describes himself as a “king of the road”, he is using hyperbole to emphasize his sense of freedom and independence. This further conveys his self-absorbed nature and his need for power.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Flannery O’Connor’s use of figurative language is crucial in developing the character of Mr. Lucious Shiftlet in her novel, The Life You Save May Be Your Own. Through the use of similes, metaphors, personification and hyperbole, O’Connor is able to convey Shiftlet’s personality and character, both directly and indirectly. In this way, the reader is able to gain a better understanding of Mr. Shiftlet’s inner motivations and intentions, as well as how he interacts with the other characters in the novel.