Simile An explicit comparison between two unlike things by using words such as like, as, appear, than, and seems.
Metaphor A comparison between two unlike things done implicitly (implied) without words such as like or as.
Implied Metaphor A subtle comparison – the terms being compared are not specifically explained.
Part or all of the poem consists of a series of related metaphors. Extended Metaphor Part or all of the poem consists of a series of related metaphors.
Controlling Metaphor A single metaphor is at work throughout the poem. All controlling metaphors are extended, but not all extended metaphors are controlling.