How do metaphors enrich a literary text?

Metaphors enrich a literary text by creating connections between disparate ideas, thereby enhancing understanding and depth. By likening one thing to another, metaphors encourage readers to see relationships and similarities between concepts that may initially appear unrelated. This can lead to a more profound interpretation of themes and emotions within the text, offering new insights that might not be immediately obvious.

For example, when a poet describes love as a "journey," it invites readers to consider the various ups and downs, challenges, and discoveries inherent in relationships. This layered approach adds complexity and allows for multiple interpretations, enriching the overall experience of the work.

In contrast, while some readers may find complex metaphors challenging, they primarily serve to engage readers' imaginations and promote deeper thinking, rather than make the text difficult to read. Additionally, metaphors are not used solely for humor, as they often have serious or profound connotations. Rather than eliminating ambiguity, they often invite further exploration of meaning, creating layers that contribute to the richness of the narrative.