Author’s Craft Figurative Language

What is Figurative Language Language that expresses something more than the dictionary meaning of the words Authors use Figurative Language to: –Paint a vivid image in the mind of the reader –Stir up emotion in the reader –Create mood –Help the reader better understand the theme (message)

Simile A comparison of two different things using words such as “like”, or “as” Helps the reader see things in a new way Examples: –She was as quiet as a mouse. –His face was as red as a beet. –The pudding tasted like a whole raft of lemons, like a night on the sea. –The way you grow old is kind of like an onion or like the rings inside a tree trunk.

Metaphor Compares two different things Helps the reader see things in a new way Examples: –The classroom was a hive of activity. –Father thundered into the room. –He showered her with gifts. –Your life is a blank page.

Personification Author brings objects and ideas to life by describing with human qualities Helps the reader better understand and visualize the text Examples: –The wind sighed in the trees. –The mountain stands guard, dark and silent. –My computer refused to cooperate. –Flames licked up the wall of our house.

Imagery The author uses vivid language to create an image in the reader’s mind. Appeals to the reader’s senses Helps create mood and sets the tone Examples: –Where have the unicorns gone? They have scattered far from the noxious smog, Wrapping themselves in wee wisplets of fog; Leaving the iron-sharp city-straight scapes Fleeing in greying and tattered moon capes Away from the scenting of fire and fume, Away from the odor of spillage and gloom, Down to the ribbon-rolled river.

Symbolism The author uses one object to represent (stand for) another object or idea Helps the reader understand the deeper meaning or message (theme) Examples: