The metaphor is language that directly compares seemingly unrelated subjects. A simile is a technique that uses words such as “like” or “as” to compare two ideas. Even though similes and metaphors are both forms of comparison, similes allow the two ideas to remain distinct in spite of their similarities, whereas metaphors seek to equate two ideas despite their differences.
Huh? What was that again?
Using metaphors in your writing can be a surprise for the reader — and an effective way to make your point. They can also be dreadful, eliciting groans and guffaws.
There is a collection of “worst” metaphors written by high school students that floats around the Internet. Stephens Press book designer Sue Campbell is a fine writer with a wry sense of humor. She’s crafted a story using EVERY metaphor on the “worst” list plus creating a few doozies of her own. Titled Hefty Bag, you’ll find this writing exercise on the Downloads page.
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