Every book has a defining characteristic that makes it original and special. In Night by Elie Wiesel figurative language is not the characteristic that makes the book good, but the way it is used puts the book in a category of its own. The techniques Wiesel uses to portray his astonishing and detailed memories are through foreshadowing, similes and metaphors. Initially, Moshe the Beadle foreshadows the oncoming butchery, but the people of Sighet are reluctant to believe him. Another example of foreshadowing occurs when a woman riding in the same cattle car as Wiesel further implies the horrible fate of many Jews. Secondly, Wiesel's use of similes is superb. Before being deported from Sighet, Wiesel's simile use explains the disbelief within the small town. Lastly, Wiesel uses a metaphor to convey his feelings after his liberation, which shows his horror and state after his ghastly ordeal. .
Night's prominence is greatly attributed to the use of foreshadowing. The best examples of foreshadowing, relate wholly to death. At the outset of the book Wiesel is craving to be more accepted and a more adult figure in his family. He turns to religion as a way for him to progress and become a new spiritual leader in his family. When no one will teach him the "cabbala", he turns to a man in a similar position as he, who is struggling to be accepted and trusted by the people of Sighet, Moshe the Beadle. When Moshe is expelled, and then returns, the truth begins to emerge of what really happens when people are expelled. "Jews, listen to me. It's all I ask of you. I don't want money or pity. Only listen to me I wanted to come back to Sighet to tell you the story of my death. So you could prepare yourselves while there was still time." This foreshadowing shows only a hint of what misery Wiesel will face, and shows how foolish many people can be in war times. As the book progresses the towns foolishness transforms into disbelief and then to panic.
