Figurative Language
Posted by anjila | Posted in Literature Theory | Posted on 11:24 PM
There are for types of Figurative Language. They are:
- Image:
Image is a word or words that refer to an object perceived by the senses such as color, shape, sound, taste, smell, texture, etc. When it is seen by the eye(usually) it is called an image.
e.g. Red flag is an image of anger.
There is always a literal and emotive meaning behind an image.
e.g. Cloud(image): It's literal meaning illustrates that it is a cloudy day whereas it's emotive meaning expresses that sadness is approaching. - Symbol:
Where image comes repeatedly in a text it becomes a symbol. Just like image, even symbols have literal and emotive meaning.
e.g. Spring and Autumn: Literal Meaning- Seasons
Emotive Meaning- Spring reflects birth or rebirth.
Autumn reflects process of dying.
Symbol is similar to abstract idea it stands for. Sometimes symbol can be private. In such case only author understands what symbol he/she is using. However, Symbol should match with theme. While analyzing a text we should see if the formal elements enhance the theme no matter even if its a private symbol. Authorial intention is not a concern in this matter. - Metaphor:
Unlike image and symbol, metaphor only has figurative meaning. Metaphor is direct comparison between two dissimilar objects.
e.g. My love is a rose.
Literal meaning: I am deeply is love with a flower.
Emotive/ Figurative Meaning: My love share some qualities with rose. - Simile:
Simile is a comparison of two dissimilar objects using words such as "like"and "as"
e.g. My love is as beautiful as a rose.
My brother is like a gem
Note: Simile is rather softer than metaphor because in metaphor comparison is direct whereas in simile, the comparison is done by using words like "like" and "as".
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