Inking Erudus - Using Similes

World Building Window

Inking Erudus is a new series that looks behind the tools, and techniques that I use and explore for my fantasy tales. Today’s series deals with similes.

Similes - What are they?

Similes are comparisons used to make a connection between two unrelated things. The device often uses the words like, than and as. They are often funny, and tend to add to the imagery of a story. They make things more concrete by linking them the familiar.

Some similes have become common. The following are examples.

• Like a moth to a flame

• Like cats and dogs

• As fast as lightening

• As Light as a feather

What are the characteristics of similes?

• Explicit Comparisons

• They always use connector words

• They are designed to paint a mental picture

• Exaggeration is common

Purpose of the Similes in writing

• Enhance the mental images in a story making things more tangible

• Emphasize something in your story so that it is memorable.

• To enhance to tone of your story.

• To make your story more memorable

  

Cliche Similes

Some similes have been so overused that they have become cliche, and should not be used in writing. The following are examples.

• As busy as a bee

• Fit as a fiddle

• Mad as a hatter

These similes have become cliche, because they have been so overused, that the original meaning is lost. They should not be used in writing as they are considered lazy.

My Turn

• Jynx is mind is as cosmic as nature.

• Angelika’s smile is comfortable like well-worn shoes.

• Keefee’s power is as understated as a flashlight.

Your Turn

Create one or two similes that are relevant to a current piece of your writing. Share them in the comments if you’d like.

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Good-bye for now. I hope Easter is as comfy as a cloud.