Final answer:
The described phrase is an example of a metaphor, a literary device that compares two things without using "like" or "as", suggesting a deeper or symbolic resemblance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phrase “When she danced with Lama/On the hillside,/He told her that the soul can transcend earthly life/If freed from the retina” utilizes metaphorical language to convey a complex idea about spiritual transcendence and the essence of reality beyond the physical world. This is a literary device known as a metaphor, which compares two things without using "like" or "as", suggesting a deeper or symbolic resemblance. Metaphors are a common tool in literature to help readers connect with the text on an emotional and intuitive level, allowing them to explore new ways of thinking about the relationship between the compared elements.
The excerpts provided exemplify this form of expression. In each case, whether discussing a spiritual connection, the allegorical Platonic cave, dream-like state reflections, or the transitory nature of a character's experience, the writers employ metaphors to illustrate complex thoughts and emotions. These metaphors serve to engage the reader's imagination and encourage a more profound comprehension of the themes present in the text.