Metaphors vs Extended Metaphors: What's the Difference?
How do metaphors and extended metaphors differ?
Metaphors and extended metaphors differ on the basis of their length. While a metaphor is limited in length, an extended metaphor is longer. Which of the following best describes the difference?
A. A metaphor is limited in length, while an extended metaphor is longer
B. A metaphor describes the way someone thinks or feels, while an extended metaphor describes things
C. A metaphor makes a comparison, while an extended metaphor conveys a set of ideas
Answer:
While a metaphor is limited in length, an extended metaphor is longer.
A metaphor is a figure of speech that makes a comparison between two unlike things, typically using the words "is" or "are." It is a concise way to convey a complex idea or emotion. On the other hand, an extended metaphor is a metaphor that is developed over the course of a poem, story, or other piece of writing. It continues the comparison for an extended period, often taking up multiple lines, paragraphs, or even the entirety of the piece.
For example, in Shakespeare's Sonnet 18, the speaker compares his beloved to a summer's day in the opening line: "Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?" This is a simple metaphor. However, as the poem continues, the speaker expands on this comparison, describing the ways in which his beloved is superior to a summer's day. This extended metaphor allows for a deeper exploration of the speaker's feelings and ideas.