Writing to Learn: Simile and Metaphor

Simile and Metaphor

Use or adapt the template below as a prompt for writing similes and metaphors.

A simile is a descriptive phrase that compares two things using like or as. A simile is one way to create an immediate visual image of what you are describing. For instance, you could compare a subject in a work of art (dog) using an adjective (white) with another noun (snow):

This dog is as white as snow.

You can also compare a subject (shawl) directly with another noun (night) to help:

Her shawl is like night.

Select an object from a work of art, and use nouns and adjective to try writing a couple of similes.

This __________ is as __________ as __________.

This __________ is like __________.

A metaphor is a writing device that makes an implied comparison that forms an expressive and complex image. Metaphors enliven poetry, stories, and conversations by creating a visual picture to describe something. For instance, the simile mentioned above, “Her shawl is like night” could be turned into a metaphor by saying: Her shawl is night, concealing her vulnerability in darkness. Here are some other examples of metaphors: Her shawl is the night sky, expanses of black scattered with light. Her shawl is smoke, rising warmly from the fire at her feet. Her blouse is a pastry, with cotton candy sleeves and cuffs of swirling taffy. Now you try!