In this sentence, what figurative device does thoreau use to establish the tone of this passage more strongly?

where is the sentence?

B.No shanty comes close to as poor as mine.

Explanation:

postards have pictures on them, these pictures are things that may never be seen again. the pictures are a part of our history that shows things. because of this many collectors would pay a lot of money for them.

i read on google they "offer a glimpse into the past"

hope this : )