COMMENTARY

Mammon and the Archer

In this title the author makes use of one of the most expressive tropes—a metaphor. This is a figure of speech in which a word or phrase literally denoting one kind of object or idea is used instead of another to suggest likeness or analogy between them. The metaphor may be expressed by any part of speech. Here Mammon (the god of riches of ancient Syrians) is a symbol of wealth, especially wealth having an evil power or debasing influence. An archer is a person skilled in the use of the bow and arrow. Here the archer stands for Cupid, the Roman love-god, usually shown in pictures and statues as a chubby naked boy with wings and a bow and arrow. (See the end of the story.) Cupid is used as a symbol of love. Juxtaposition of these two notions is meant to produce a humorous effect.

I bet my money on money every time.

I am ready to bet any sum of money any time for I put much confidence in the omnipotence of money.

3. …the appendix…

It is the supplement to the encyclopaedia, containing matter explanatory, but not essential to its completeness. It is mentioned here to intensify the comic effect, produced by old Rockwall’s speech in defence of his views.

<== попередня сторінка	\|	наступна сторінка ==>
By O. Henry (1862 – 1910)	\|	I’m for money against the field.

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