Question

The western wave was all a flame. The expression ‘western wave‘ here is an example for -----------

• A. Rhyming words
• B. Synecdoche
• C. Metaphor
• D. Hyperbole

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Metaphor

Understanding Metaphor in Poetry

• Definition: A metaphor is a figure of speech that directly compares two unlike things without using 'like' or 'as'. It states that one thing is another.
• Application in the Quote: In the expression 'The western wave was all a flame', the 'western wave' (likely referring to the sea or ocean in the west) is directly compared to 'a flame'. This implies the sea is fiery, perhaps due to a sunset or some intense visual phenomenon.
• Purpose of Metaphor: Poets use metaphors to create vivid imagery, evoke emotions, and convey complex ideas or feelings in a concise and impactful way. They allow readers to understand abstract concepts through concrete comparisons.
• Distinction from Simile: A simile makes a comparison using 'like' or 'as' (e.g., 'The wave was *like* a flame'). The absence of these words in the given phrase confirms it as a metaphor.
• Exam Relevance: Identifying figures of speech like metaphors is a common question in English Literature and Language exams. Understanding their function helps in analyzing literary texts and appreciating the poet's craft.
• Contextual Clues: The surrounding lines or the poem's theme often provide clues to the intended meaning of a metaphor. For instance, a poem about a dramatic sunset would strongly support the interpretation of the 'flaming' wave.