Writing Is a Breeze… with Metaphors

Writers are constantly on the lookout for techniques to make writing our writing more interesting and effective. One of my favorites is using metaphors.

Back to English 101: What Is a Metaphor?

A metaphor is a figure of speech, where you explain something by saying it IS something else. For example, take the title of this post, “writing is a breeze.”

Writing isn’t literally a breeze, is it? But by saying that it is, I in effect characterize writing as something soothing, light and fresh – just as a breeze is.

In a metaphor, you use something more familiar (breeze) to describe something less familiar (writing). You don’t say they are alike (“writing is as fresh as a breeze”), because that would be a simile. Rather, you say that one thing is another.

How Metaphors Work

Metaphors are wonderful writing tools. They give us a communication shortcut. Going back to the example of this post’s title. I didn’t have to say that writing becomes fresh and easy when you use metaphors.

Similarly, I don’t have to explain it when I say, “Spice up your writing with metaphors.” Because you’re familiar with spice and how it makes a dish tastier, you know exactly what I mean.

Which brings me to the next benefit of metaphors: they make writing more interesting. Metaphors conjure concrete images in the readers’ mind, making your piece more lively.

Where to Find Metaphors

The best metaphors come from ordinary daily life. After all, we want something familiar with our readers. Depending on whom you’re writing for, you can use metaphors from domestic life (cooking, cleaning, household objects), work, and the environment (such as nature).

Pop culture is also a rich source of metaphors. Check out what’s popular in movies, TV, music, and books. Is this an excuse to watch TV? You bet!

Three Tips for Using Metaphors

Using metaphors is fun, but it’s easy to make a mess of it. Keep these 3 simple tips next time you employ a metaphor in your writing:

1. Use metaphors that are familiar with your readers.

This is where really knowing your readers pays off. By using the right metaphors, your piece will connect with your readers.

2. Don’t mix metaphors.

If you’re using cooking metaphors, don’t mix gardening metaphors in the pot. That will make things confusing and messy.

3. Don’t overdo it.

As with all things, moderation is key. Overdoing metaphors is like putting too much salt in your dish. It’s a big turn off.

Next time you sit down to write a blog post, article or an mail, stop and think where a metaphor or two might put more color in the piece. And try to be more aware of metaphors as you read the printed word, whether online or offline.

Now do share: what are your favorite metaphors and why?

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About the Author

Alexis Rodrigo is a passionate blogger, copywriter and Internet marketer – when she isn’t changing diapers or cooking meals, that is. A self-confessed word nerd, she is a lifelong student of how words influence people’s thoughts, attitudes, feelings and actions.

Visit Lexi Rodrigo Online at: TheSavvyFreelancer.com