Using Similes and Metaphors

Sunflowers in September

The sunflowers are in full bloom this early September. Seeing a whole field of our Kansas state flower makes me want to write poetry. Many have done so in the past, I'm sure. A sunflower is like...

Think about the comparisons you might make when writing about sunflowers. Using similes and metaphors when we write show rather than tell.

Let's define those words and then try an exercise. This definition comes from Grammarly.

While both similes and metaphors are used to make comparisons, the difference between similes and metaphors comes down to a word. Similes use the words like or as to compare things—“Life is like a box of chocolates.” In contrast, metaphors directly state a comparison—“Love is a battlefield.”

I think the easiest way to remember is that a simile uses the words like or as. Metaphors do not. If you remove the word like in the example above, you have a metaphor using the same nouns. "Life is a box of chocolates." Or if you add one of the two defining words, you would have "Love is like a battlefield." 

Why do an exercise on similes? Because then using similes and metaphors will come naturally when you write. You won't need to stop and think about it. 

One word of warning:  Both similes and metaphors are helpful in bringing visuals and more to the reader but be careful not to overuse them. I once read a book that a writer friend had self-published. The story was quite interesting but she used similes on nearly every page. It turned out to be overkill. Had she gone to a professional publishing house, her book might never have seen the light of day. An editor would have pointed out her simile problem in a hurry.

For the exercise on similes:

Make lists comparing everyday objects to something you know. Try the ones below to begin but make a new list each week. It's a quick exercise and, as stated, will help you use both metaphors and similes without having to think about them. Just be careful not to use cliches. Those 'tried and true' phrases we all know may come to mind but use your own instead. Editors slash through cliches, too.

1. A window is like __________________
2. A doorknob is like __________________
3. Policemen are like ___________________
4. My sandals are like __________________
5. A sunflower is like ___________________

Next try some where you expand on the idea:

1. My mother is like a library. (Go on to explain)
2. My old boyfriend is like a McDonald's. (go on with this idea)
3. His hair is as unruly as a rag mop. (Continue with the description)

Exercise on metaphors:

Use the examples above. Remove the word like or as. Same idea but now it is a metaphor. Do they all work? 

I find similes easier to use than metaphors but many writers prefer it the opposite way. Poets, I believe, are more apt to use metaphors. Some use them in a way that leaves the reader scratching their head to figure out the exact meaning. Do what works best for you when you write.