"great python spitting its venomous kerosene upon the world" - This metaphor compares the hose of the flamethrower to a snake. The purpose of the metaphor is to show the destructive power of the flamethrower. "his hands were the hands of some amazing conductor" - This metaphor compares Montag to a conductor. It shows his control over the fire and his enjoyment of burning everything. By comparing Montag to a conductor, it makes his job almost a form of art and beauty.
