Figurative Language

Why figurative language? Literal language – is what is on the surface Figurative language – is what is below the surface – this requires higher level critical thinking and analysis. Sometimes what the author intended and what the reader sees can be different. Poetic writing helps represent events/feelings/abstract ideas for the reader.

IMAGERY words or phrases an author uses to create pictures or images in a reader’s mind The soft, sweet smell of the flower reminded him of her. The long, hollow wail of the train sent shivers down his spine. The warm, fuzzy sweater hugged her body. EXAMPLES: appeal to the 5 senses

METAPHOR a direct comparison between 2 things without using “like” or “as” My car is a lemon. His apartment was an oven. Life is a highway. The snake’s stomach was a bottomless pit. EXAMPLES:

SIMILE a comparison between 2 or more things which are essentially different She is as small as a mouse. His face was blazing like a fire. Life is like a box of chocolates. Her eyes were clearer than water. EXAMPLES: uses the words “like”, “as” or “than”

PERSONIFICATION inanimate objects and abstract ideas are given human qualities: physical, emotional, psychological EXAMPLES: The leaves danced across the lawn. The wind chased her through the streets. The mouse trap bit his finger.

ALLUSIONS EXAMPLES: references to people, characters, or events from history, mythology, religion, literature or pop culture He had the language of Eminem and style of Stephen Harper. She played the saxophone like Lisa Simpson. The ride was so bumpy. You might as well have been in a Red-River cart.