Think of symbols that, to you, represent a “bigger picture.” Metaphor is everywhere – in song lyrics, dreams, highway traffic. Or it could be in the form of a popularly used expression, such as “Chill…!”; “Put a lid on it.”; “…drive me crazy..” You may sense that a metaphor is at work, but maybe you haven’t tuned in to how it is working as a metaphor.
[for example: a recurring dream image of a half-open door may be a metaphorical message of a turning point you’re trying to decide in your life — whether to go ahead, or whether to “close the deal…”]
Analyze a symbol as metaphor: Write a 400 WORDS in which you analyze why you see, hear, feel the symbol as a greater picture, greater message than the obvious.
Metaphor:
My heart’s a stereo
It beats for you, so listen close
Hear my thoughts in every note…
Make me your radio
Turn me up when you feel low…
– Maroon 5: Adam Levine (AND guest rapper Travie McCoy)
Then Creatively show a metaphor: This is a creative piece, to get your imaginations peaking. You may write a short poem; create song lyrics; a “vignette” in the voice of another person, or thing, or animal. Whatever the case, your voice/character is seeing the world through METAPHOR.