What metaphors are used in The Sleepwalkers by Hermann Broch?

The Iron Cross is a medal awarded by the German military to its heroes. Joachim's Uncle Bernhard had one, and the medal was in his family's home, occupying a place of honor. Joachim revered it, and somewhere in his military experience, he earns one that he wears around his neck while as Town Commandant of Moselle. During times of stress, the old man touches the ribbon holding the medal around his neck, and this comforts him. It becomes a symbol and a metaphor of past glory and struggle.