Literal and Figurative Language
what is it?
Literal Language simply means exactly what is stated while Figurative Language uses similes, metaphors, hyperbole, and personification to describe something using comparisons.
tl;dr
literal = literally
figurative = not literally
when to use
The author uses literal language to simply describe things in a more serious tone. Like the dog is drinking. While the author uses figurative language to incite emotion from readers and helps them visualize the scene. Like the dog is drinking an ocean. Authors can shift between figurative and literal language in order to change the tone of a piece and/ or emphasize a point.
tl;dr
literal = serious / factual
figurative = emotion
figurative example
literal example
Figurative lanuage in literature
"But a BIRD that stalks down his narrow cage
Can seldom see through his bars of rage
His wings are clipped and his feet are tied
The caged bird sings with a fearful trill…
And his tune is heard on the distant hill for
The caged bird sings of freedom".
(I Know Why the Cage Bird Sings by Maya Angelou)
Figurative language can use many figures of speech to show the impact of the words. Here the metaphor of the bird is used to represent people that don't have freedom. Those who are caged. The metaphor emphasis how just like the bird those oppressed "sing a fearful trill".
LITERAL written example
"Sorry losers and haters, but my I.Q. is one of the highest -and you all know it! Please don't feel so stupid or insecure,it's not your fault"
- Donald Trump, Twitter
(Yes, this is sadly real)
https://twitter.com/realdonaldtrump/status/332308211321425920?lang=en
LITERAL written ANALYSIS
Mr. Trump's remarks claim that his IQ level is above all of his haters and losers, but consoles them by claiming its not their fault. Trump means exactly what the text states, meaning this is literal. He uses literal language to convey his point, rather than use something like a metaphor to allude to the point that he has a higher IQ.
works cited
Layfield, Emily. "What Are the Effects of Figurative Language on a Short Story?" Education.seattlepi.com. Demand Media, 14 Mar. 2015. Web. 2 Oct. 2016. Kokemuller, Neil. "What Is the Purpose of Figurative Language?"Classroom.synonym.com. Demand Media, 1 Apr. 2014. Web. 2 Oct. 2016. Morton, Mr. "Figurative Language Worksheets." Ereadingworksheets.com. EREADING WORKSHEETS, 2 May 2012. Web. 2 Oct. 2016.