Final answer:
The phrase 'The sea breathed again in a long slow sigh' is an example of personification, a type of figurative language. It attributes a human quality (breathing) to the sea to create a vivid, relatable image for the reader.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phrase 'The sea breathed again in a long slow sigh' employs figurative language. Specifically, this is an example of personification, where the sea is given the human attribute of breathing. The sea cannot literally breathe, but this literary device is used to convey a vivid image of the sea’s movements in a way that is relatable to human experience.
Such use of personification can enrich the text by adding a layer of meaning and emotion, making the description of the sea more evocative and alive to the reader. This technique is common in poetry and prose to create a more immersive and atmospheric narrative.
Writers often use figurative language to engage readers' senses and emotions, as seen in various literature excerpts where the natural world is described using human-like qualities or actions. This creates a tangible connection between the environment and the reader, enhancing the overall narrative experience.