A literary device used in The Glass Castle is analogies. An example of this would be Jeannette stating that “[they] were sort of like the cactus. [They] ate irregularly, and when [they] did, [they'd] gorge [themselves]“. This literary device adds to the story because it accurately depicts how appalling Jeannette's family life is. The Walls family does whatever they can to survive their difficult living situation, even if that means forgoing food.

A prevalent theme in the book is abuse. This is shown many times throughout the novel by Rex, Billy Deels, and even Erma. The character I have chosen is Rex Walls. He illustrates the theme through the way he treats Rose Mary. He has dragged her into their car and dangled her from a second floor window; their fights always indicate a form of abuse. It also becomes apparent that alcohol abuse runs in the family after reading about his mother. (1/3)