In the provided paragraph, the author employs the oxymoron "silent scream" to illustrate the intense internal conflict and emotional turmoil experienced by the narrator. On one hand, a scream typically signifies an outward expression of distress or frustration, while "silent" conveys the absence of sound. This juxtaposition highlights the narrator's struggle to reconcile their feelings. They wish to express their disappointment and frustration regarding not getting the role in the school play, but they feel unable to do so due to the anticipation of little sympathy from their parents. The "silent scream" encapsulates the idea that, although they are overwhelmed with emotion, they choose to internalize rather than vocalize their feelings.
The role of the oxymoron in this context serves to deepen the reader's understanding of the narrator's emotional state. The phrase suggests a profound sense of isolation, where the narrator feels compelled to suppress their feelings rather than seek solace in conversation with their family. This internal distress is reinforced by the opening statement, which expresses frustration and disappointment. By using the oxymoron "silent scream," the author effectively communicates the complexity of the narrator's emotions, showing how powerful feelings can exist in a person while remaining unexpressed. The silent scream becomes a poignant metaphor for the struggle between vulnerability and the desire for emotional connection, emphasizing the theme of unvoiced disappointment.
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