What metaphors are used in Losing Battles by Eudora Welty?

In Part I, Jack returns to his family. On his return, he and Vaughn playfully joust with a pair of dried cornstalks..... the game serving as a metaphor for their relationship. With Jack away, Vaughn took on the role of the eldest son. He even tells Jack, "I've got on your pants." Despite his efforts, however, Vaughn will never be held in the same regard as Jack, and now that he is back, Vaughn will once again be relegated to the shadows.