Final answer:
The purpose of using figurative language in persuasive writing is to make an argument more impactful by creating vivid imagery and connecting emotionally with the reader, thus enhancing the message's persuasiveness.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of using figurative language in persuasive writing is to create vivid and memorable images in the mind of the reader, making the argument more impactful and engaging. By utilizing literary devices such as metaphors, similes, hyperbole, and personification, a writer can connect with the audience on an emotional level, often making the message more convincing. Figurative language helps to illustrate points more dramatically, clarify and embellish arguments, and add layers of meaning, often making the content more relatable, thus enhancing the persuasive effect.
For example, saying '“I'm so hungry I could eat a horse'”, which is a form of hyperbole, emphasizes the intensity of the hunger more than simply stating '“I'm very hungry”. Similarly, describing someone's actions as '“climbing the wheel like a squirrel” provides a lively and engaging comparison that captures the reader's imagination better than a literal description. Such use of figurative language transforms the writing from plain text into an immersive experience, potentially swaying the audience in favor of the author's viewpoint.