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Hyperbole
Definition of Idiom
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on a literal interpretation of the words in the phrase. For... read full definition
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on a literal interpretation of the... read full definition
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on... read full definition
Chapter 25
Explanation and Analysis—Hitler's Ear:
In Chapter 25, Pino grows increasingly guilt-ridden over his position as a spy for the Allies, as he is required to wear the Nazi uniform and pretend to fall in line with the Third Reich. To demonstrate Pino's close proximity to high-ranking Nazi officials, Sullivan utilizes an idiom:
Shame and revulsion poured through Pino at the thought that he’d worn the OT uniform, the same uniform worn by people who built gas chambers to kill Jews and crematoriums to hide the evidence. In his mind, the builders of those camps were as guilty as whoever ran them. And Leyers had to have known. After all, he had Hitler’s ear.
The idiom “he had Hitler’s ear” is a figurative way to demonstrate General Leyers's close relationship with Adolf Hitler. Leyers does not literally possess Hitler's ear, of course, but the phrase implies that Leyers has immediate and intimate contact with Hitler. Leyers knows of Hitler’s plans, his beliefs, and his secrets, leading Pino to believe that there is undoubtable evidence of Leyers's guilt and guilt by association. This passage demonstrates the sheer power of General Leyers, who by the end of Beneath a Scarlet Sky becomes a surprisingly morally ambiguous figure. However, at this moment Pino has no doubt of his guilt, given his close associations with Hitler and his ability to perhaps influence or persuade the dictator.
Related Themes:
