AFCT English Complete Practice Test Guide

Metaphor is a prime example of figurative language used in poetry because it creates a direct comparison between two unrelated subjects, helping to convey deeper meanings and complex emotions. By saying one thing is another, metaphors can evoke imagery and provoke thought in ways that literal language cannot.

For instance, saying "Time is a thief" suggests that time steals moments from our lives, providing a vivid illustration of how quickly time can pass without us noticing. This enhances the emotional weight of the poem and engages the reader's imagination.

Descriptive language focuses primarily on providing vivid details and sensory information, while technical jargon contains specialized terms that may not convey deeper emotional truths. Simple sentences communicate ideas directly without the layered meanings that metaphors and other figurative elements provide, thereby lacking the richness often found in poetic expression. Thus, a metaphor stands out as a fundamental element of figurative language, essential to the craft of poetry.