From Darkness to Light-1

"Embryos are like photograph film," said Mr. Foster waggishly, as he pushed open the second door. "They can only stand red light." (Brave New World, page 11)


In this simile, Mr. Foster is comparing embryos to photograph film. I think this simile is effective because the idea of fertilization, embryos, and mass production can get confusing and photograph film is a universal term that all readers will be able to comprehend. The author goes on to explain that the students had been in darkness but now a "visible and crimson" light exposed the embryos. Photograph film can not be seen until it is under red light. Just as photographers take great interest in their photos and manipulate them into the work of art they want, the scientists are manipulating the embryos into what they want. I think the author also uses this simile because it shows how Mr. Foster is trying to help the students understand what is taking place at the centre. He doesn't expect the students to fully grasp what kind of work goes on, and I don't think he or the Director wants the students to know every little detail about what they are doing to the embryos. By comparing the embryos to photograph film, Mr. Foster is downplaying the harsh truths about how much the workers are manipulating the embryos.