Question

C.4 Interpret the figure speech

What does the metaphor in this text suggest?
When Bernard lost his job, he was devastated. The only light in the sea of darkness was
the prospect of pursuing a new career.
Having to pursue a new career was the worst part of
Bernard's job loss.
Bernard felt in the dark about what to do after losing
his job.
There was a benefit to Bernard's job loss.
Submit

Answer 1

The metaphor 'light in the sea of darkness' symbolizes the prospect of a new career as a single positive outcome in the negative experience of job loss, representing hope and a possible bright future.

Step-by-step explanation:

The metaphor in the text suggests that there was one positive outcome or glimmer of hope amidst the negative experience of Bernard losing his job. The 'light in the sea of darkness' metaphorically represents that hope in the form of a new career opportunity. It is not suggesting that the prospect of a new career was the worst part, as the sea of darkness refers to the job loss and its negative impact on Bernard's life.

By contrast, the 'light' is something positive and potentially redeeming in a difficult time. This use of metaphor aligns with other literary devices such as personification, where concepts are given human characteristics, as in treating poverty as an 'enemy', or allegory, where a story represents abstract ideas or principles, as shown in the classic cave allegory by Socrates. These figurative language tools help deepen the reader's understanding of themes by painting a vivid picture, far beyond the literal meaning of words.