There were multiple instances within the first reading where
Kingsolver utilized metaphorical devices to emphasize the intent of her work.
First of all, there is an abundant use of irony. As
punishment for wrong doing, the Price girls are sentenced with “the dreaded
Verse,” (pg. 59) that is to say they must copy out verses from the bible. Ruth
May even goes to say that the common “household punishment” is worse than a “mere
thrashing for…sins.” A holy book intended to bestow words of goodness, love,
and peace upon the faithful, is used in this case to “castigate” (reprimand
severely) the innocent Price sisters.
Similarly Methuselah, the household pet bird, holds
metaphorical significance. “Methuselah was a sly little representative of
Africa itself, living openly in our household.” This bird provides the reader
ample insight on the Price family’s relationship with Africa and the African
people. Although father Price thinks of the bird as a “poor African bird” and “innocent
creature that can only repeat what it hears,” his less arrogant and more level
headed children see Methuselah, and therefore the African culture, as “not dumb.”
Where Nathan overlooks the intelligence and slyness of the bird, he also
underestimates the intellect of the African people. This is emphasized when
Nathan ignores housekeeper, Mama Tataba’s, advice pertaining to the African
method of planting a garden to uphold his ego and assumed superiority. This also
provides foreshadowing to other events where Nathan’s arrogance leads him to
ignore African traditions and customs therefore ultimately causing an upset.
Overall, the first book of The Poisonwood Bible, full of
symbolism and irony, provides insight to what lies ahead for the Prices as they
continue their mission work in Africa.
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