In Maya Angelou's "Finishing School," the passage of time is signified through various narrative techniques and transitional phrases that indicate changes in seasons, years, and phases of life.
Some of the ways she signifies the passage of time include:
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Seasons and Years: Angelou often uses references to seasons (spring, summer, winter, fall) as metaphors for growth and change, marking the progression of time in a more cyclical approach.
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Milestones and Events: Key events in her life, such as graduations, birthdays, or significant experiences, help to delineate the passage of time.
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Personal Development: The narrator reflects on changes in her own understanding and maturity over time, highlighting how she has grown from her experiences at the finishing school.
Some transitional phrases that might indicate time's passage could include:
- "As the years went by..."
- "In the following months..."
- "Eventually..."
- "Before long..."
- "In the years that followed..."
These phrases not only mark the shift in time but also often coincide with shifts in perspective, providing deeper insight into Angelou's growth and the influences of her educational journey. By using these techniques, Angelou effectively captures the rhythm of life and the profound impact of her experiences.