This article will explore similes, analogies, and metaphors, and attempt to clarify exactly what they are and how they differ from one another. I've searched for these answers on the web and found many differing explanations. Some are very good and self-evident, while others tend to be inconsistent or ambiguous. This article is my attempt to reconcile them, and come up with an understanding that is both non-ambiguous, and at least self-consistent.
The brain mechanisms underlying
metaphor and
analogy are fast becoming an important part of our neurological understanding of the connections between the brain and the mind. For this reason alone, it seems fairly important to have firm definitions for these terms that are precise, unambiguous, and self-consistent.
Please Note: I am NOT a writer by any stretch of the word, and do NOT claim any expertise in, or special passion for, the art of writing. This blog-entry is partially part of my attempts to sort through all the advice that's out there, and become a better writer. With that in mind, if you are an actual writer, and you see bad mistakes here, know that I would be grateful for any and all good-willed advice you may wish to share.
Now that that's out of the way, lets get on with the discussion.