When Something Reminds You of Something Else: The Art of Similitude

When something makes you think of something else, it’s often called a metaphor or a simile. In psychology, this phenomenon is referred to as priming, where one thought or memory is triggered by another. This article explores the nuanced world of similitude, including similes, metaphors, analogies, and allegories, and why they are so powerful.

What is Similitude?

Similitude encompasses the three main literary devices: simile, metaphor, and analogy. There's also a fourth kind, allegory or parable, which is less commonly used in the Western world. Each of these devices brings a different layer of meaning to language and thought.

Simile and Metaphor

Simile uses like or as to compare two unlike entities directly, as in the famous line: My love is like a red, red rose.

A metaphor, on the other hand, does not use like or as but implies a comparison between two unlike entities. For example, He is a lion in the arena. A metaphor creates a new entity that combines the similarities of both objects. This comparison is richer because the audience must draw the parallels between the two compared entities.

Analogy and Allegory

An analogy presents a relationship between two things and is often expressed with the word like or as. It is a broader form of comparison that can be explicitly explained or left to the audience to interpret. A famous analogy might be: Think of a salesperson as a miner searching for gold. This draws parallels between a salesperson's work and a miner's search, highlighting how both require effort and finding a valuable target.

An allegory is an extended metaphor, where the comparison is more involved and requires interpretation by the audience. A famous example is John Bunyan's The Pilgrim's Progress, where the protagonist, Christian, is an allegory for a person on a spiritual journey. In this story, Christian is burdened with a heavy pack that symbolizes his sins and doubts.

Biblical and Philosophical Context

Jesus used parables to convey his messages, as recorded in the Bible. His parables were often designed to be thought-provoking and sometimes even bewildering to his listeners, as seen in the passage you referenced:

"Why do you speak to them in parables?” the disciples asked Jesus. "Because with most of you, the message of the kingdom of God is hidden. To you who accept God’s message, more will be given. But from those who do not accept it, even what they have will be taken away." (Matthew 13:10-12)

Jesus used these stories to challenge his listeners to think deeply and interpret them in the context of their own lives. This is a powerful form of communication that requires active engagement from the audience.

Psychological Priming

Psychological priming is a cognitive process where one thought or memory can trigger another similar thought or memory. This phenomenon is closely related to similitude, as it often involves associating one entity with another to elicit a certain response or thought. For example, seeing a red rose might remind you of someone's love for you, a common simile in literature.

Conclusion

Similitude is not just a literary device; it is a powerful tool for communication, education, and personal growth. From similes and metaphors to analogies and allegories, these devices help us understand the world around us in a more profound way. Remember, the world is a symbol, and its symbols bring life to the very essence of human experience.

Key Takeaways:

Similes use like or as to compare two unlike entities directly. Metaphors compare two unlike entities, creating a single new entity that combines the characteristics of both. Analogies present a broader form of comparison, often using like or as. Allegories are extended metaphors that require interpretation by the audience.

Explore Further:

Read John Bunyan's The Pilgrim's Progress for a deeper understanding of allegory. Study the psychological principles of priming to understand how our brains process and relate information. Experiment with creating your own similes, metaphors, analogies, and allegories in writing or speaking.