metaphor in literature

A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two unlike things without using "like" or "as." It suggests that one thing is another, enhancing meaning and creating vivid imagery. For example, saying "time is a thief" implies that time can stealthily take away moments of our lives, much like a thief would steal belongings. Metaphors enrich language, allowing deeper understanding and emotional resonance. They are commonly used in poetry, prose, and everyday speech to convey ideas and feelings more powerfully. By transforming the familiar into the unfamiliar, metaphors invite readers to see the world in new ways.