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Literary Devices
Definition of Allusion
In literature, an allusion is an unexplained reference to someone or something outside of the text. Writers commonly allude to other literary works, famous individuals, historical events, or philosophical ideas... read full definition
In literature, an allusion is an unexplained reference to someone or something outside of the text. Writers commonly allude to other literary works, famous individuals... read full definition
In literature, an allusion is an unexplained reference to someone or something outside of the text. Writers commonly allude to... read full definition
Chapter 34
Explanation and Analysis—St Vitus's Dance:
As he describes an argument between Jerry and Larry—another groom—about whipping horses, Black Beauty employs a simile that alludes to St. Vitus’s dance. St. Vitus's dance is an inflammatory response to strep throat that causes quick, jerky movements:
‘You never take the trouble to see if he will go without it; your whip is always going as if you had the St Vitus’ dance in your arm; and if it does not wear you out, it wears your horse out; you know you are always changing your horses, and why? Because you never give them any peace or encouragement.’
By drawing a parallel between “St. Vitus’s dance” and Larry's incessant use of the whip, the narrative underscores the idea that his actions are not just excessive, but almost involuntary and thoughtless. This disorder is now more commonly known as “Syndham’s Chorea.” It provokes involuntary limb movements in children, which are uncontrollable and can be alarming. This allusion offers readers a vivid illustration of Larry's behavior, suggesting that he wields the whip without consideration or restraint. The comparison not only criticizes Larry's actions but also alludes to a larger societal issue: the thoughtless and habitual cruelty towards animals by those who should be their caretakers.
When Jerry observes Larry's actions, saying his whip goes "as if you had the St Vitus’ dance in your arm," the simile paints a striking picture. Readers are invited to visualize Larry's arm in jerky, uncontrolled, and erratic motion, akin to someone suffering from the disease. By suggesting that the whipping seems beyond Larry's control, Jerry indirectly questions Larry's competence and temperament as a handler.
Furthermore, the use of this simile subtly conveys the criticism and disapproval Jerry feels towards such behavior, as “St. Vitus’s dance” was a disorder only seen in children. He is implying that Larry’s lack of “any peace or encouragement” toward the horses is childish and ignorant.
Related Themes:
