"The Misfit's eyes were as blue as a peacock's neck."
This simile serves several purposes:
* Contradiction: The contrast between the Misfit's cruel actions and his unexpectedly beautiful eyes creates a jarring and unsettling effect. It makes the reader question his nature and his ability to be redeemed.
* Symbolism: The peacock, with its vibrant plumage and notorious vanity, symbolizes the Misfit's superficiality and the disconnect between his outward appearance and his inner darkness.
* Foreshadowing: This image emphasizes the Misfit's mysterious and unpredictable nature, hinting at the brutality he is capable of. It also foreshadows the unexpected turn of events in the story's climax.
The simile's effectiveness stems from its unexpectedness, its symbolism, and its contribution to the story's unsettling atmosphere. It underscores the central theme of the story, which explores the nature of good and evil, and the complexities of the human soul.