Figurative Languauge

Why do authors use figurative language? Some people don't really like figurative language because it can be hard to understand but it definitely serves a purpose in writing. In the book I’m reading, The Musician’s Daughter, Susan Dunlap uses a lot of figurative language. The main character Theresa it trying to figure out the mystery of her father’s death so the author uses a metaphor to express Theresa’s thoughts. It says, “No, Schnabl could not be the missing piece of the puzzle.” (Dunlap 235). This is a common comparison between a mystery and a puzzle but regardless, it helps the reader visualize the story better. Another example of figurative language is a hyperbole. A hyperbole is just an extreme exaggeration. Dunlap uses hyperboles a lot throughout the book because they help get the point across and make the situations seem direr. This is especially good since this book is a mystery. An example of a hyperbole in this book is when it says, “But I was tired to my bones…” (Dunlap 233). This is an exaggeration because we know it isn’t possible to be “tired to the bones” but it helps show the exhaustion Theresa is going through.

            I like how there are a lot of metaphors, hyperboles, and personifications in this book. I feel like it really clears up any confusion and it helps create a clearer image in your head. Also I like how some of the metaphors are very common (as you saw above), but some of them are very creative and open you up to new ideas. Occasionally there will be a comparison and I will have an ah-ha moment because I never thought of something that way before.