In chapter three, he comments on a writer’s lack of comparison in description. By comparison he means, the use of simile and metaphor to evoke an image.
A simile uses “like” or “as” in describing something. An example: His glare tore through her like a slug from a .45.
A metaphor is an implied comparison. An example: His eyes lit up with hellfire. Notice the absence of like or as.
For someone like me who uses few comparisons, Lukeman’s following comment is a challenge.
“Conversely, a work devoid of comparison may also be problematic; sometimes a clearer picture need be drawn, especially of an obscure idea. A manuscript bereft of comparison usually ends up registering with the reader intellectually but not emotionally; he may understand it perfectly well but still mysteriously put it down, for some unnameable reason not feeling compelled to turn its pages.”
As a children’s author, I want my readers to be invested emotionally in the story as well. Bringing in a comparison, an uncliched but familiar one, will bring out the needed emotions and illuminate a vague concept.
I’m thankful I read this, as it spurs me on to use similes and metaphors in my writing to evoke the needed response. Perhaps you can use them too.
Press on, writers!
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