Final answer:
Aristotle believed in achieving a balance in writing where a metaphor can elevate style but should not be overused to the point where it undermines clarity. A mix of proper words and unusual terms can provide both clarity and distinction.
Step-by-step explanation:
Aristotle's View on Metaphors and Clarity
Aristotle had nuanced views on the use of metaphor in writing. He believed that style should be clear to avoid being mundane or mean, as he suggested in his work Poetics. This means that while the use of current or proper words is essential for clarity, it can also make the style too common if not employed with care. Therefore, Aristotle held that diction should occasionally employ unusual words or metaphors to elevate it above the commonplace. However, he warned against overusing them, as too many would make the text read like a riddle or jargon, thus impairing understanding. To achieve the perfection of style, a balance between these elements must be struck to maintain clarity while offering sufficient complexity and elevation to hold the reader's interest.