Posted on 3-31-23

Analogy

a: a comparison of two otherwise unlike things based on resemblance of a particular aspect.

b: resemblance in some particulars between things otherwise unlike : SIMILARITY.

: inference that if two or more things agree with one another in some respects they will probably agree in others.

“Analogy Definition & Meaning.” Merriam-Webster, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/analogy.

We see these types of references such as:

Talking to a brick wall

Swimming with the fishes

Up a creek with no paddle

A needle in a haystack

A roller coaster of…

AND

William Shakespeare was great at these.

“What is in a name? That which we call a rose…”

“All the world is a stage.”

Analogies are making connections between familiar and unfamiliar things for us to suggest a deeper meaning or significance, creating imagery in the minds of our readers. And when used in the right places, it can really pack a punch of prose exactly where needed.

We can use these to make a point without going into further detail and this can help with concise writing. Used properly, these analogies can hit home a point that is made by our characters. These can especially be impactful with antagonists to create an attachment to their humanity while leading the reader to hate them at the same time.

Used in the correct way and at the right time in our stories, and these can make our writings much more effective and provide the reader with a greater story experience. Can you use any in your story?

Thank you for reading and don’t forget to…

Write On!