In what way can figurative language impact comprehension?

Figurative language significantly enriches comprehension by allowing readers to grasp meanings that transcend the literal interpretation of words. By employing metaphors, similes, personification, and other rhetorical devices, figurative language evokes emotions and imagery, enabling readers to engage with the text on a more profound level. This deeper engagement can lead to varied interpretations, offering insights that connect the text with personal experiences or broader themes.

For example, when a writer describes a fierce storm as “nature's fury,” the reader not only understands that it is a storm but also senses its intensity and potential danger, fostering a richer understanding of the event’s significance. Thus, figurative language serves as a powerful tool in literature, enhancing the reader's ability to derive multifaceted meanings and connections from the text.