Question

Notice the following expressions. The highlighted words are not used in a literal sense. Explain what they mean.
• Words had to be prized out of him like stones out of a ground.
• Sophie felt a tightening in her throat.
If he keeps his head on his shoulders.
• On Saturday they made their weekly pilgrimage to the United.
• She saw… him ghost past the lumbering defenders

Answer 1

1. These words are spoken by Sophie to Geoff. In this line, Sophie compares the words uttered by Geoff to the precious stones that have to be dug out from the earth, both being laborious activities.
2. After returning from her school, Sophie notices her father sitting on the dining table. In this line, she is expressing her fear of her father's wrath.
3. In this line, Sophie's father compliments Danny's skills at playing football, but, he feels that he could only achieve long term success if he keeps himself well grounded.
4. In the given line, the author points at the habitual visit of Sophie's family to watch the football match every week. The word 'pilgrimage' emphasises the theme of hero worship in the story.
5. In this line, the author describes Sophie's recollection of Danny Casey who leaves behind all other players and speeds towards the goal.