What metaphors are used in The Buddha of Suburbia by Hanif Kureishi?

The narrative can be seen as a metaphor for class struggle. The class struggle is a constant background issue in their world. Karim is from a lower middle class family, but gets to see the world of the upper classes through his relationship with Eleanor and his association with Pyke. He also encounters lower class characters. Being on the middle rung of the class structure gives Karim a strong insight into the class differences. At the same time his behavior towards lower class characters mirrors how he is treated by upper class characters. Karim is not immune to class expectations or behaviors. He feels superior to Heater, much as he feels inferior to Eleanor.