Mrs. Bernhardt 8H

Figurative language is language that means more than what it says on the surface. By comparison, literal language means exactly what it says. Types of Figurative Language: Simile Metaphor Alliteration Personification Onomatopoeia Hyperbole; Symbolism

A simile is a direct comparison between two unlike things, usually with the words like, as or than. Example: The muscles on his brawny arms are as strong as iron bands. She ran faster than a speeding bullet. Her legs felt like rubber bands when she finished the race.

A metaphor is an implied comparison between two relatively unlike things that does not use the words like, as, or than. Metaphors say that one thing IS or WAS another thing. Example: The road was a ribbon wrapped through the dessert. Example:He is an eating machine!

Repeated consonant sounds occurring at the beginning of words or within words. Example: She was wide-eyed and worried while she waited for Walter.

Personification gives the qualities of a person to an animal, an object, or an idea. Example:The daisies danced in the field. Time crawled as Tom sat in the hot detention room painfully watching the clock tick.

An exaggerated statement used to heighten effect. It is not used to mislead the reader, but to emphasize a point. Examples: My dog is so ugly, we have to pay the fleas to live on him.. She kicked that soccer ball for miles!

The use of words that mimic sounds. Example: The firecracker made a loud ka-boom!

The Clouds Pass By Richard Garcia The clouds pass in a blue sky Too white to be true Before winter sets in The trees are spending all their money. I lie in gold Above a green valley Gold falls on my chest I am a rich man.

___________________________ By Sylvia Plath I am silver and exact. I have no preconceptions. Whatever I see I swallow immediately Just as it is, unmisted by love or dislike. I am not cruel, only truthful …….

Symbolism is using an object or a word to represent an idea. When an author wants to suggest a certain mood or emotion, he can also use symbolism to hint at it, rather than just blatantly saying it.  An author uses an object or idea to add deeper meaning to a story.  Symbolism is used to provide more meaning to the writing beyond what is actually being written.

In literature, symbols are full of meaning and are used to develop atmosphere in the text. Example: A storm occurring when there is a conflict or high emotions creates mood. Example: Transition from day to night could symbolize moving from goodness to evil.

So, the next time you read a novel, play or short story watch out for what’s not written in the words. Learn to look beyond the words.