Clean Cut: Buffalo Slaughter
“The buffalo was of medium size, but boasted an exceptionally long tail, which it swung vigorously from side to side as though determined to splatter its timid, inexperienced master with as much filth as possible”(47).
“‘They’re waiting for the blood to congeal... It’s a remedy against cowardice. To gain courage, you must swallow it when it’s still lukewarm and frothy’”(94).
Sijie uses the symbol of the water buffalo to illustrate the fear and confusion of reeducation for the youths. Slaughtering the water buffalo as a ritual for Four Eyes’ release demonstrates how Four Eyes is now able to put down the horrible times of reeducation, and find his courage once again.
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ReplyDeleteI like this symbol because it is very well explained and it ties to the quotes nicely.
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