Figurative language in the time of the butterflies

As I continue to read this book I've noticed that Julia Alvarez uses a lot of figurative language in her writing. Figurative language is used to show more detail about how a person is feeling or how things are. The most important figurative language I found was when I was reading the end of chapter six. At the end of chapter six Minerva and Mama are at the capital speaking to Trujillo. Trujillo still wants Minerva despite of what happened at the dance. (When Minerva slapped him.) Minerva has no interest in Trujillo; her interest is going to law school. Trujillo then tells her they can gamble for what they want. If Trujillo wins he gets Minerva and if Minerva wins she can leave freely and he will consider letting her go to law school. Before they gamble minerva notices the dice set on the scale are not equal which means they are fixed for Trujillo to always win. "He lifts a set of dice from his scales, upsetting the balance. " (Alvarez. 114) . This is a symbol because it symbolizes how Trujillo doesn't play fair and likes to cheat to get his way. Trujillo is a crooked man but Minerva is smart enough to notice his tricks and get around them. The two of them both roll the same number and call it equal. Minerva is able to walk away without any strings attached. I must go now the dauntless are calling til next time my friends!

Conflict within the sister's

Throughout the story the Mirabel sisters are faced with several conflicts. Internally each of the sisters struggle with becoming who they truly are and also the desire to please their family. They each must decide if loyalty is the best for them or being involved in politics is the best choice for them; while trying to be good daughters, and sisters to their family. Externally the sisters must choose to get involved with the political side of Trujillo and doing the right thing. Minerva is very well against Trujillo and wants to bring him down and have a free country. Patria has a hard time choosing because she is unsure if she wants any involvement but at the same time she doesn't want to upset her family. Patria also has a conflict with her faith when her baby is born dead. Maria Teresa is still learning about the bad acts of Trujillo and still has time to decide what she wants to do. Dede however doesn't seem like she wants anything to do with politics. Overall I will continue to read and tell you more as I get further into the story. Good-bye for now. 

Hi, I am Tris Prior. I am currently reading "In The Time Of The Butterflies" while hiding from the Euridte and Dauntless soliders. I will continue reading and tell you more.