How does one use metaphor in writing?

Answer 1

Comparisons, in writing, enrich a reader's experience. Metaphor is one way to compare things in a particular way.

While you can say that that one thing is like another, metaphor is different. Using metaphor, a writer flat-out states (or strongly implies) that one thing is another. Usually the things being compared are similar enough so that the comparison makes sense to the imagination.

For example, if you write, "Life is an airplane," you are using metaphor. A reader's imagination might understand immediately: "Yeah, life is an airplane. Sometimes everything is smooth, but sometimes it gets bumpy. And sometimes you crash."

For another example, look at the following poem by Edna St. Vincent Millay (not copyrighted in the United States):

by Edna St. Vincent Millay

My candle burns at both ends;

It will not last the night;

But ah, my foes, and oh, my friends--

It gives a lovely light!

Here, the poet does not say that her life is a candle. But using your imagination, you understand that that's what she means. She's exerting so much energy, she's using up her life twice as fast as an ordinary one, she seems to be saying. But, although her life may be shortened because of that, the "light" -- another metaphor -- is twice as bright. "Light" is probably a metaphor for satisfaction or achievement or both. You have to use your imagination!

Ishmael Reed wrote a poem titled "Dualism," in which he says he's outside of history, and wishes he had some peanuts, because it looks hungry, "there in its cage." Can you see how he is saying history is an elephant? History is rather large -- and always gathering more events, just like an elephant eating peanuts.

To use metaphor in writing, let your imagination wander. What is life like for you? What is sadness like? What is love like? Is life a tractor? Is sadness a large black bird? Is love a warm sea with gentle waves? Say so, in your writing, and then continue to write about it until you are done.

Don't use "like" or "as," however. For example, if you write, "Life is a like a tractor," you are no longer using metaphor, but simile. Metaphor is often considered to be a stronger literary device: it makes the imagination work a little harder.