Anna in the Tropics

How does Nilo Cruz use imagery in Anna in the Tropics?

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Cruz's language is charged with poetic images and rhythms of speech, which remain strong from beginning to end. Cruz occasionally presents his characters' beliefs and interior states of mind through vivid metaphorical passages, such as the one in which Marela describes her dream of snow or when Marela and Juan Julian discuss the many different shades of light that exist and how, according to Marela, "There's always a hiding place to be found, and if not, one can always hide behind light." The exchange between Conchita and Juan Julian in which they refer to their need for sanctuary is yet another example of metaphorical language in the play, for the characters alternately describe their trysting place as being "cold and impersonal" like a hotel or a hospital, neither place offering "temporary relief from the world or a temporary rest from life." Furthermore, Juan Julian alludes to the restorative power of Nature, of which sex plays a vital part, when he tells Conchita, "I detect sad trees in your eyes after we make love."

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Anna in the Tropics