This is a SIMILE - if words such as 'as' or 'like' are used in order to compare two things (in this case, 'giant rocks with razor edges crouch LIKE a sea monster with wide open jaws'), then it is a simile.
Guy De Maupassant Wrote about the Paris Society.
By 'author of the essay reading Shakespeare' do you mean us readers?
As, I'm currently doing right try and read classical novels like 'How to kill a mockingbird'. There's no need to rush if it's the first time reading, the more you read (or few of classicals) you will kind off get what the author is making the character speaking. Also understanding the aspect of the story. :)
The line "Happy thoughts come to those with baked goods and fat cats." means that the reasons behind having happy thoughts include baked goods and fat cats. Maybe the person who said this loves cats and cookies, cakes, and pastries. <span />
