In "The Edible Woman" by Margaret Atwood, the author uses vivid metaphors to convey a mother's perception of her children. By comparing them to barnacles on a ship, she illustrates how children can cling to their parents, potentially becoming burdensome as they grow and demand more attention. This suggests a sense of entrapment for the mother, as she navigates her own identity amidst her responsibilities.
Similarly, the imagery of limpets clinging to a rock further emphasizes this idea of attachment and dependency. The mother feels as though her children are stuck to her, inhibiting her freedom and personal growth. Through these metaphors, Atwood delves into the complexities of motherhood, highlighting the tensions between love, obligation, and the desire for independence.