The storm kept the news from reaching town for weeks, and by the time it arrived it was as useful as a broken wagon wheel. How does the simile help craft the

Answer 1

The simile “as useful as a broken wagon wheel” effectively emphasizes the futility and frustration surrounding the news that finally reached town. By comparing the news to an object that is inherently useless in its broken state, the simile suggests that the information is not only outdated but also lacks any practical value or relevance to the townsfolk's current situation. This comparison helps craft a sense of disappointment and desolation, illustrating how the delay in communication rendered the news irrelevant, much like how a broken wagon wheel cannot fulfill its intended purpose of transporting people or goods. Overall, the simile reinforces the themes of inefficiency and the impact of isolation, enhancing the emotional tone of the narrative.