Which statement best explains the figurative use of the phrase "who perched like black birds on the criss-cross trunks" in the excerpt below?
Understand the Problem
The question asks you to identify the best explanation of the figurative language used in the phrase "who perched like black birds on the criss-cross trunks," specifically whether it's an example of metonymy, metaphor, simile, or irony. You need to understand the definitions of each of these literary devices to select the correct answer.
Answer
C. The phrase is an example of a simile because it compares the boys to birds.
The correct answer is C. The phrase "who perched like black birds on the criss-cross trunks" uses the word "like" to draw a comparison between the choirboys and black birds. This makes it a simile.
Answer for screen readers
The correct answer is C. The phrase "who perched like black birds on the criss-cross trunks" uses the word "like" to draw a comparison between the choirboys and black birds. This makes it a simile.
More Information
A simile is a figure of speech that directly compares two things. Similes differ from metaphors by highlighting the similarities between two things using words such as "like", "as", "so", or "than", while metaphors imply a comparison. Metonymy is the substitution of the name of an attribute or adjunct for that of the thing meant.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing similes and metaphors, similes use words such as like, as, or than to compare things. Whereas, metaphors imply a comparison.
Sources
- Lord of the Flies: Metaphors & Similes | SparkNotes - sparknotes.com
- Figurative Language Answer recording sheet.docx - Name - coursehero.com
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