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Here’s a challenge that’s sure to keep you on your toes. A metaphor is language that directly compares unrelated objects. For example:

All the world’s a stage,
And all the men and women merely players;
They have their exits and their entrances;
— (William Shakespeare, As You Like It)

Practice writing metaphors, no not similies, metaphors.

You can’t use like and you have to avoid cliches. The goal here is to come up with a truly original metaphor each day. By doing this you exercise your creative mind. You’ll notice a difference immediately as your writing will become more descriptive and profound.

If you find your struggling with this, start by choosing an object, any object will do. Then compare it to a human. For example I chose a stapler. By comparing this to a person you would get the following metaphor:

She is a stapler.

Okay, so that seems pretty lame, but if you add in a little explanation it creates a personality type:

When it comes to relationships, she’s a stapler.

This might need a little work, but you get the idea. If you’re afraid of commitment, you might not want to tangle with this woman.

Good Luck.

Writing tip provided by Ann Douglas

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