Let's talk about using metaphors in writing (and why it's a good idea + how to do it well.)

THREAD.

1. Hemingway said: "A writer's style should be direct and personal, his imagery rich and earthy, and his words simple and vigorous."

Let’s see how he executes this, shall we?

2. Here's a metaphor-free excerpt from The Sun Also Rises:

"In the morning I walked down the Boulevard to the rue Soufflot for coffee and brioche. The horse-chestnut trees in the Luxembourg gardens were in bloom. There was the pleasant early-morning feeling of a hot day."

3. It’s enjoyable to read because the scene he’s created for us is rich with detail, but it’s done simply.

He’s not being overly flowery: In fact, his sentences are declarative, fact-based, and direct (and zero metaphors are used.)

4. Now, here's the thing: We're not Hemingways, you and I.

And that's okay!

But we CAN use the power of metaphors.

5. What's a metaphor, again?

It's a figure of speech that, for rhetorical effect, directly refers to one thing by mentioning another.

It may provide clarity or identify hidden similarities between two different ideas.

6. One of my favorite metaphors:

"The sun in the west was a drop of burning gold that slid near and nearer the sill of the world.” —Lord of the Flies, William Golding

7. Metaphors allow us to paint pictures for readers with details.

Think about speaking to the different senses. Take readers along with you on a trip back into your memory and put them in the scene as the action unfolds.

8. I love metaphors more than similes (which use 'like' or 'as') because they're more abstract and stylized.

Sometimes, to me, a simile feels like a shortcut. A cheat. You know?

You're pointing out the comparison rather than letting the reader see it for him or herself.

9. The bottom line here: Metaphors are great writing tools for building mental pictures with readers.

If you find a great one while reading, take a picture or highlight it.

The more you recognize them, the better you'll get at creating your own.