Figurative Language

Figurative language is to a writer what a paintbrush is to an artist. That is, you can use it to take
something simple or flat and transform it into something multi-dimensional. Figurative language has
the ability to be more impactful than literal writing, it can expand readers interpretations and broaden
their imaginings.
Take similes and metaphors - two of the most popular forms of figurative language. Similes make
comparisons using the words "like" or "as."
For example, "He was fierce as a lion." Metaphors make comparisons that are more indirect.
For example, "After meditating, he was Buddha himself."
You can see how these examples of figurative language give literal meanings a bit of a boost.
Instead of using a simile, we could have just said, "He was fierce." Isn't that boring, though?
Now, we have an image of a man dominating the room like a lion on the savannah. The same for our zen
man.
We could've said, "He was very calm." Instead, we're able to conjure up an image of the serene and
wise Buddha. Fun, right?
Let's get out our paintbrushes and take a closer look.

Kind of Figurative Language :

1. Alliteration

The repeating of usually initial consonant sounds in two or more neighboring words or syllabus.
- She shall seashell by the seashore.

Example in a song:
"Whisper words of wisdom, let it be." (Let It Be - The Beatles)
The three we repeated at the start of the lyrics add to the tone of the overall song.

2. Hyperbole

An exaggeration that is so dramatic that no one would believe the statement is true. Tall tales are
hyperboles.
- He was so hungry, he ate that that whole cornfield for lunch, stalk and all.

Example in a song:
"Near, far, wherever you are" (My heart will go on-Celline Dion)
The songwriter exaggerates the way to illustrate the main character's presence to the listeners.

3. Metaphor

A metaphor is a comparison between two things. They don't necessarily have to be alike but make a link
in the reader's mind.
- "Nobody invites Edward to parties because he is a wet blanket."
- You are what you eat.

Example in a song:
"Do you ever feel, feel so paper thin" (Fire Work - Katy Perry)
Here the singer is trying to compare the weak-minded persons to a thin paper or a tissue paper.

4. Personification

When something non-human is given human-like qualities, this is known as personification. "
- The leaves danced in the wind on the cold October afternoon.
- My teddy bear gave me a hug,

Example in a song:
"The snow glows white on the mountain tonight" (Let It Go – Idina Menzel )
In reality, snow doesn't glow.

5. Simile

A simile is a direct comparison between two things, using like or as.

- Jamie runs as fast as the wind.
- Busy as a bee
Example in a song:
"Do you ever feel like a plastic Work - Katy Perry)
Here the singer compares a person to a plastic bag which used to store things or perhaps a garbage
cover.

6. Symbolism

Symbolism occurs when something that has one meaning is used to represent something entirely
different. For example, using an image of the American flag to represent patriotism.

Example in a song :
"You shoot me down but I won't fall, I am titanium” (Titanium - David Guetta)
In this song, the word 'Titanium' is used as a symbol for toughness. The singer expresses that others'
negative opinions will not bother him because he is as strong as titanium.

7. Assonance

Assonance occurs when you repeat a vowel sound in a phrase. "True, I do like Sue."

Example in a song:
"Say hey, good lookin'. Whatcha got cookin'?" ("Hey Good Lookin' - Hank Williams, Jr.)

8. Idiom

An idiom is an expression used by a group of people with a meaning that can only be understood
though common usage. "I'm waiting for him to kick the bucket." (Many idioms are also considered
clichés.)

Example in a song:
"Easy come, easy go" (Grenade - Bruno Mars)
It is an idiom to tell about a person who doesn't take the relationship seriously.