Angry as a Snake on Steroids: Metaphors and Similes

Metaphors and similes are words of comparison used to paint a vivid mental literary picture, bring prose to life, and—often—show how clever a writer can be. A metaphor says that something is something else. It is a direct comparison: “He’s lion-courageous.” A simile does the same, except the word as or like is used: “He’s as courageous as a lion.” I like to think of similes as softer comparisons. In conversation, we often use metaphors and similes that have become cliches, but, when writing for publication, it’s a good idea to be original.

Here are a few examples:

It’s raining sheet-metal screws. [metaphor]

My bicycle tire is as flat as a dollar bill. [simile]

We’ve got to leave for the airport now, so dig yourself out of the sofa. [visually humorous metaphor]

Her red hair shone like a blazing fire. [simile]

The Wicked Witch of the West was as angry as a snake on steroids when she saw Dorothy wearing the ruby-red slippers. [simile]

Metaphors and similes should be used sparingly, otherwise readers become disenchanted or just plain bored. I like to use my favorite dessert, bananas Foster, as an example: bananas, butter, and bourbon, sautéed and poured over vanilla ice cream—what’s not to love? [metaphor] If I could be assured those extra calories wouldn’t blow me up like a balloon [simile], I’d eat it every day, but I’d probably grow tired of it after a week, or a month.