Writing tips from Texas author DiAnn Mills<\/p>\n

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A metaphor is a word or phrase that uses one object or idea in place of another to suggest a connection between them. Cleverly written figurative language bursts onto the page with symbolism, adding power to the manuscript. In fiction, the writer crafts a metaphor according to a character\u2019s personality and life experiences. This eliminates clich\u00e9s that are dull and instead introduces something exciting and original.  <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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A writer who uses metaphors shows how a character expresses feelings and opinions. The specialty of this literary technique involves using words and phrases unique to the character. The literary technique sprinkles the page with life. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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Metaphors Add Four Dynamics to the Manuscript. <\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

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   Creativity blends the reader\u2019s imagination with the character\u2019s personality. Be bold. Be brave. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

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   Explore new concepts by creating metaphors in every part of speech. List the words and phrases in a file where you can access them. Remember to massage the metaphor to fit the character. One character might interpret a metaphor one way, while another character provides another perspective. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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      Emotion allows the reader to participate in what is happening in the story by measuring the sensation according to personal knowledge and life experiences. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

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         Reader experience is intensified by introducing culture, language, ideas, setting, and more in a world different from their own, filling in the gaps in the reader\u2019s understanding and adding meaning to their world with powerful imagery,   <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

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         Metaphors are not to confuse the reader but for their enjoyment. Writers want to be congratulated, encouraged, and remembered for their stories. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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            \u201cShow, don\u2019t tell\u201d is overcome when using figurative language that expresses or demonstrates the differences or similarities of something tangible or intangible.  <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

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            The easiest way to describe a metaphor is to consider it a symbol. Symbolism touches the reader with a subtle understanding. Suddenly the weather, the rushing water, a distinctive personality, color, or the way the stars light up the night mean something more.  <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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            A simile uses the word \u201cas\u201d or \u201clike\u201d to show a comparison. A simile is always a metaphor, but a metaphor is not always a simile.   <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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            *His room is clean as a whistle. (simile) <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

            *She\u2019s cool as a cucumber. (simile) <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

            *The horse was a gust of wind. (metaphor) <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

            *She\u2019s a fish in water. (metaphor) <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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            How to Develop Metaphors  <\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

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               Use sparingly to add a hint of spice. Too many spices overpower the flavor of the story. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

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                  Use language appropriate to the genre. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                  A romance novel would not contain the same type of metaphors as horror, fantasy, historical, science fiction, suspense, children\u2019s story, etc. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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                     Use language relatable to the character\u2019s career, education, and life experiences.  
                     Consider a farmer, lawyer, health care provider, member of the armed forces, scientist, and more. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

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                        Use various symbols such as colors and numbers that have different meanings according to context. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

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                        Common Metaphors <\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

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                          You are my sunshine.  <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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                          Get an education or you\u2019ll be sitting in the dark. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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                          Night covered her like a shroud. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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                          He is two-faced and a rat. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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                          He spits his words like venom.  <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

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                          Your Turn to Create a Metaphor <\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

                          Construct a metaphor that weaves everything about your character and genre together to create a vivid and fresh picture. Share your writing! <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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