What metaphors are used in The Recognitions a Novel by William Gaddis?

In Chapter Three, absurdities of all kinds bring a tragicomic theme to the story. The Reverend Gwyon discovers that his ivory tower existence is not sacrosanct when a group of church women descend upon his house and, suggestive of T.S. Elliot's "Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock," spend their time waiting to confront the cowering clergyman. ("In the drawing room the women come and go, Talking of Michelangelo," is how Elliot describes this sort of passive-aggressive behavior.) This image may well be intended as a metaphor for the impotency of the church in dealing with modern issues and concerns. Ossified in its traditions and practices, the modern Christian church has failed to respond to contemporary spiritual needs and thus has contributed to the growing gulf between church and humanity.