[stylist] Metaphor or simile

Tue May 24 14:27:15 UTC 2016

A simile is a comparison using like or as.

The shadow is shaped like a cat.
The flower is as beautiful as you.

A metaphor is a figure of speech implying an equation to one thing to
another. Often, it's full of imagery.

The shadow leaped across the wall, reminding me of a cat.
The wind blew the petals of the flower, it's graceful dance in the breeze
was as breath-taking as gazing at your face.

Maybe not great examples, but the best I can do early in the morning, ha-ha!

Metaphors are a direct comparison, whereas similes tend to be indirect.

Metaphors and similes are great, if done correctly, to enhance one's
writing. It can help make language descriptive, pushing images into the mind
of readers.

You can say: The sun was hot. Or: The sun bore down on us like hot irons.

The night was scary. Or The inky blackness of the night sky left me
desolate, a large, dark hand forming a wall of fear around me.

Again, not literary genius here, but hopefully you get the idea.

Bridgit

-----Original Message-----
From: stylist [mailto:stylist-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Bill Outman
via stylist
Sent: Tuesday, May 24, 2016 5:25 AM
To: 'Writers' Division Mailing List' <stylist at nfbnet.org>
Cc: Bill Outman <woutman at earthlink.net>
Subject: [stylist] Metaphor or simile

Good morning, list.  

The discussion came up over the weekend within my circle or the difference
between a metaphor and a simile.  

I thought I remembered the distinction correctly but looked it up and it
seemed to be the reverse of what I thought I had learned.  

This would be a good discussion topic to help us all sharpen our craft.  

Bill Outman 

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