Final answer:
Metaphor is a key aspect of figurative language involving a direct comparison between unlike things without using "like" or "as," for example, "Life is a journey." This enriches texts by providing vivid imagery and deeper meaning.
Step-by-step explanation:
When ideas, actions, or objects are described using non-literal language, it is known as figurative language. This type of language includes various forms, such as metaphors, similes, personification, and hyperbole. Amongst these, the term metaphor is used to describe a direct comparison between two unlike things without using the words "like" or "as". For example, saying "Life is a journey" is a metaphorical statement that compares life to a journey to underscore its various experiences and stages. On the other hand, a simile uses "like" or "as" to make a comparison, such as "Her smile is as bright as the sun". Personification attributes human qualities to non-human entities, for instance, "The wind whispered through the trees." Lastly, hyperbole involves exaggeration for emphasis, like "I have a ton of homework."
Figurative language enriches the text by adding a layer of meaning and helping readers visualize concepts and emotions more vividly. It is a powerful tool in poetry and literature for creating imagery and conveying complex ideas in an engaging and relatable manner.