The Power of Metaphors

Purpose A writer uses metaphors to give the reader a deeper understanding of an idea. The writer does this by comparing two things that seem unrelated, but actually have important similarities.

Example: All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and their entrances, and one man in his time plays many parts. _______________ is being compared to _________________

What do we know about the theater (stage)?

What does the theater have in common with life?

Now working with your group, try this one: His cotton candy words did not appeal to her taste. _______(1)_______is being compared to _______(2)_______ What do we know about 1? What does 1 have in common with 2?

Now working alone, try this one: Al-Qaeda is a tumor. We went in to wipe it out, but it was too late. The cancer had already spread. _______________ is being compared to ________________ Explain the metaphor.