Extended Metaphor: A Literary Device

Etymology of Extended Metaphor

The term “extended metaphor” finds its roots in the fusion of two linguistic components. The word “extended” emanates from the Latin “extendere,” meaning to stretch or prolong, while “metaphor” is derived from the Greek “metapherein,” signifying a transfer or carrying across.

Coined in literary discourse, an extended metaphor refers to a protracted and elaborate comparison between two distinct entities, where one subject is extensively explored and detailed through its association with another. This device transcends the brevity of traditional metaphors, providing an extended framework for conveying complex ideas and evoking a more nuanced understanding within the realm of language and literature.

Meanings of Extended Metaphor

Aspect	Meaning
1. Linguistic Roots	Originating from the Latin “extendere,” meaning to stretch or prolong, and the Greek “metapherein,” signifying a transfer or carrying across.
2. Literary Device	Coined in literary discourse to denote a protracted and elaborate comparison between two distinct entities.
3. Elaborate Comparison	Involves a prolonged exploration and detailed comparison of one subject with another, transcending the brevity of traditional metaphors.
4. Complex Ideas	Provides an extended framework for conveying complex ideas, allowing for a more nuanced understanding within the realm of language and literature.

Definition of Extended Metaphor

An extended metaphor is a literary device characterized by a prolonged and elaborate comparison between two distinct entities, transcending the brevity of traditional metaphors.

Originating from the Latin “extendere,” meaning to stretch or prolong, and the Greek “metapherein,” signifying a transfer or carrying across, it entails a detailed exploration that provides an extended framework for conveying complex ideas within the realm of language and literature.

This device allows for a nuanced understanding by fostering a deeper connection between the primary subject and the metaphorical vehicle.

Types of Extended Metaphor

Type	Definition	Example
Narrative Extended Metaphor	Unfolds over an entire narrative, with elements of the metaphor persisting throughout the storyline.	In Animal Farm by George Orwell, the metaphor of the farm as a microcosm of society persists throughout the entire narrative.
Conceptual Extended Metaphor	Explores a central idea or concept through an extended metaphorical framework, delving into various facets of the concept.	In As You Like It by Shakespeare, life is metaphorically portrayed as a theatrical performance with distinct stages in “All the world’s a stage.”
Allegorical Extended Metaphor	Represents abstract ideas or moral principles through a sustained metaphorical structure, often found in allegorical literature.	John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress employs an allegorical extended metaphor to convey spiritual truths through the journey of a pilgrim.
Structural	Integrates the metaphor into the very structure of the text, influencing its organization and thematic development.	In John Donne’s poem “A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning,” the compass serves as a structural extended metaphor for a stable and enduring love.
Contiguous	Maintains a continuous metaphorical thread, where each component of the metaphor builds upon the preceding elements, creating a seamless and interconnected expression.	In Emily Dickinson’s poem “Hope is the thing with feathers,” the extended metaphor of hope as a bird with feathers provides a continuous thread throughout the poem.

Common Examples of Extended Metaphors

1. Journey of Life:

• Example: Life is often seen as a journey, with each step representing a stage, the challenges encountered as hurdles, and various milestones as destinations to be reached.

2. Garden of Friendship:

• Example: Friendships are akin to a garden, demanding care, attention, and occasional pruning to foster growth and maintain a thriving connection.

3. Seasons of Change:

• Example: Life’s transitions can be compared to the changing seasons, where each phase corresponds to different experiences and emotions, mirroring the cyclical nature of nature.

4. Ocean of Emotions:

• Example: Emotions are like the ebb and flow of ocean waves, possessing depths of complexity and occasional storms that characterize the unpredictability of human feelings.

5. Puzzle of Knowledge:

• Example: The pursuit of knowledge is akin to solving a puzzle, where each piece contributes to a broader understanding, and the complete picture unfolds through continuous learning.

6. Building Relationships as Construction:

• Example: Relationships are constructed much like buildings, requiring a solid foundation, ongoing construction efforts, and periodic maintenance to ensure stability and longevity.

Suggested Readings about Extended Metaphor

1. Alexander, Jonathan, Karen Lunsford, and Carl Whithaus. “Toward wayfinding: A metaphor for understanding writing experiences.” Written Communication 37.1 (2020): 104-131.
2. Semino, Elena, and Zsófia Demjén, eds. The Routledge Handbook of Metaphor and Language. Taylor & Francis, 2016.