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Irony
Definition of Metaphor
A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two different things by saying that one thing is the other. The comparison in a metaphor can be stated explicitly, as... read full definition
A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two different things by saying that one thing is the other. The comparison in a metaphor... read full definition
A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two different things by saying that one thing is the other... read full definition
Chapter 11
Explanation and Analysis—Dangers of Poetry:
In Chapter 11, Anne uses a metaphor when sharing her beliefs on poetry with the melancholy and reserved Captain Benwick:
She thought it was a misfortune of poetry to be seldom safely enjoyed by those who enjoyed it completely; and that the strong feelings which alone could estimate it truly were the very feelings which ought to taste it but sparingly.
Anne uses an implied metaphor; she compares the intensity of poetry and the emotions it can bring about to wine or some other strong, powerful substance. The idea of somebody "tast[ing] it but sparingly" presents poetry as something to be consumed or imbibed, therefore metaphorically tying it to an overpowering concoction that certain sensitive people should be careful around. In other words, she thinks that people can get carried away with poetry, especially if they are the sort of people who gravitate toward poetry in the first place. Furthermore, she specifically considers the emotions that arise in such situations, ultimately suggesting that certain feelings can be heady or dangerous in large quantities and should thus be heeded carefully.
