Final answer:
The figurative language in the example is personification, where the earth is given human-like abilities to embrace and cling.
Step-by-step explanation:
The figurative language used in the phrase “The black earth embraces my ankles / And clings to my bent knees” is personification. Personification is a literary device where human qualities are attributed to objects or abstract concepts. In this case, the black earth is depicted as if it has the ability to embrace and cling, actions typically associated with living beings. This creates a more vivid and engaging description than simply stating the earth was muddy or difficult to walk through.