The Functions of Figurative Language
In other words, Why Do Writers Use Figurative Language?
Interest and beauty: Figurative language allows writers to express
settings, ideas, characters, and other descriptions in ways that are
unique and beautiful.
Complexity and power: Because figurative language can create
meanings that go beyond the literal, it can capture complex ideas,
feelings, descriptions, or truths that cause readers to see things in a
new way, or more closely mirror the complex reality of the world.
Visceral effect: Because figurative language can both impact the
rhythm and sound of language, and also connect the abstract (say,
love) with the concrete (say, a rose), it can help language make an
almost physical impact on a reader.
Humor: By allowing a writer to layer additional meanings over literal
meanings, or even to imply intended meanings that are the opposite
of the literal meaning, figurative language gives writers all sorts of
options for creating humor in their writing.
Realism: People speak and even think in terms of the sorts of
comparisons that underpin so much figurative language. Rather than
being flowery, figurative language allows writers to describe things in
ways that match how people really think about them, and to create
characters who themselves feel real.
In general, figurative language often makes writing feel at once more
accessible and powerful, more colorful, surprising, and deep.
