essay about swimming on a beach using figurative language

Beach Description Essay

Looking for simple and beautiful descriptive writing about a beach in summer? The beach description essay below is just what you need! Get inspired for your own creative writing with us.

Introduction

Description of a beach.

Summer is the perfect time for individuals to visit and enjoy the marvelous scenes along the coast. In addition, the feelings and experiences felt on the beach during the summer are always fantastic. Several sceneries and experiences are seen and felt at the beach during summer. These include; the plantation along the beach and inside the sea, the animals, the waters, and the people found on the beach.

The beach appears to be alive and joyful with the presence of the natural vegetation. There are evergreen plantations both along and inside the beach. Images of buoyant seaweeds can be seen along the shore. Palms trees are seen to stand tall along the beach, dancing to the tune of the breeze emanating from the waters of the sea.

The sea grapes and the sea oats are also observed gathered in clusters in the sea next to the shore. Their colored flowers are splendid and brighten at the shining of the summer sun. The sweet scent of the flower grapes sends a signal to the world about the hope brought by nature.

The atmosphere is fully intensified by the aroma produced by the buoyant sea flowers. In addition, from afar, images of leafless trees are also observed. The perfect combination of the vegetation along the beach and inside the sea displays the beauty of nature to the highest peak.

It mesmerizes the eyes to gaze at the beautiful creatures that hover all over the beach and on the deep-sea waters. There are sights of beautiful birds that fly all over the dry shoreland and over the seawaters. Their colored feathers brightened the sea with a marvelous appearance at their illumination by the sun’s rays.

There are varieties of birds that are in the vicinity. For instance, there are pelicans and seagulls. Pelicans are seen hovering over the sand, singing sweet melodies that make the atmosphere at the beach vibrant. The seagulls are also observed to be flying over the seawater in small groups. Some of the birds are gathered in groups spreading the wings that cloaked a soft shadow on the gentle water ripples.

Next to the shore, there are sea turtles that seem to enjoy the summer heat from the sun. Their eggs are also seen to be exposed on the sand by the children that play on the shoreline. Bees are seen flying from one flower to another over the sea grapes. The humming of the bees as they gather nectar from the sea flowers attracts insect-eating birds.

Large crowds are observed all over the seashore. These people come to enjoy themselves on the beach at this period of the year. In the sea, people of all ages and sexes are seen swimming and playing with the cool seawater. The scorching heat from the summer sun is felt on the forehead of all individuals.

This makes the people chill themselves in the cool waters of the sea. The children are seen playing beach ball on the shoreline. Some children are also seen pelt each other with sand on the shoreline. Besides, young boys are observed climbing tall palm trees to gather fruits.

What is more, several activities take place along and inside the shoreline. Vendors are seen carrying ice creams and soft drinks all over the shoreline. Views of homes, hotels, and other buildings that run along the peak of the beach are also seen. On the sand where children play, pieces of shells are scattered.

In most cases, children collect the shells for fun. In the shades built along the shoreline, people are seen reading books, journals, and magazines. Some are seen idling on the sand, while few adults are observed playing football.

However, there is a disgusting scene of plastic bags, cigarette butts, food wrappers, and beer bottles along the beach. These items seem to pollute the entire shoreline and the seawater.

Anglers are also observed far into the sea casting large nets into the waters to have a bulk catch of their prey. Some of the anglers are also observed perching on the edge of the shore carrying sticks in their hands. Their faces displayed the anticipation that they had for their prey.

The deep waters of the sea produce a marvelous view for anyone who gazes at the sea. The water is seen to be slowly running low on the shore. Small waves are also observed crashing on the shoreline. The surface of the sea is seen to appear blue in color.

However, some portions are also seen to have the spectrum that results from the sun’s refracted rays. Deep inside the sea, there are high waves that lift boats up and down mightily. The shimmering waves of the sea that are clear and blue mirror the rays of the hot sun. The refreshing breeze that emanates from the seawater is enjoyable.

In conclusion, the beach has a perfect view and activities that are delightful to experience during the summer. It is a place that everyone would love to be at all times.

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IvyPanda. (2019, April 17). Beach Description Essay. https://ivypanda.com/essays/description-of-the-beach-scene-in-summer/

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Bibliography

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How to Describe a Beach in Writing (21 Best Tips & Examples)

The gentle ebb and flow of waves, the warmth of golden sands, and the melodies of seagulls overhead – beaches captivate the senses.

I’ve described beaches many times in my own short stories and novels.

Here’s how to describe a beach in writing :

Describe a beach in writing by focusing on its unique size, climate, sand color, and location. Explore sensory details such as the sound of waves, the scent of saltwater, and the feel of the sand. Highlight cultural elements, marine life, vegetation, seasonal shifts, and local activities.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to describe a beach in writing.

1. Unearth the Sands of Time

Table of Contents

Every beach tells a story.

Some are age-old resting spots for local fishermen, while others have seen shipwrecks, invasions, or have been silent witnesses to lovers’ tales.

Before diving into descriptions, research the history of the beach you’re writing about.

This will not only add depth to your narrative but also connect readers to a bygone era.

Plus, if you love beaches as much as I do, then this will be pure heaven for you.

While some beaches have preserved their old-world charm with untouched landscapes, others boast modern-day beach shacks, surfing schools, or yoga retreats.

Distinguishing between the ancient sands and modernized coasts can set the mood for your description.

2. Palette of the Sands

Not all beaches are golden.

Some have white, powdery sands, while others flaunt a rare black, pink, or even green hue.

The color of the sand can significantly influence the ambiance of the beach.

Dive into the specifics – is the sand fine or coarse? Is it cool to the touch or sun-baked and warm?

Often, the sand isn’t just sand. It’s interspersed with shells, pebbles, seaweed, and sometimes even fragments of corals. Highlight these unique elements as they add character to the beach and provide sensory details for readers.

3. Dance of the Tides

Some beaches are known for their calm, lapping waves, making them ideal for relaxation.

In contrast, others are marked by powerful, crashing waves perfect for adventurous activities like surfing.

Describe the rhythm, sound, and sight of the waves to convey the beach’s spirit.

Understanding the tidal patterns can greatly enhance your description.

Low tides might expose hidden tidal pools, while high tides might bring with them a sense of mystery and anticipation.

This also affects the beach’s width and appearance at different times.

4. Symphony of the Shore

The beach isn’t silent.

From the cries of the seagulls to the whispers of the winds and the rhythmic sound of waves, nature creates a symphony.

Use auditory descriptions to transport readers to the shore.

On popular beaches, the sound of children’s laughter, chatter from nearby cafes, or tunes from a distant radio can add layers to the auditory experience.

Decide whether your beach is serene and untouched or bustling with activity.

5. Coastal Climate Chronicles

Is the beach sun-drenched, making it ideal for sunbathing? Or is it frequently cloaked in mist, giving it a mysterious aura?

The weather plays a crucial role in setting the scene and can influence activities, moods, and narratives.

Beaches transform with seasons.

While summer brings in crowds and vibrant energy, winter might render the beach desolate, with only the bravest souls venturing out.

Describe these shifts to add depth to your narrative.

6. Sunlit Spectacles

The magic of a beach often unfolds during the golden hours.

Narrate the transformation of the horizon as the sun rises, casting a delicate pink and gold hue, or as it sets, engulfing the world in fiery reds and deep purples.

The changing colors reflect not only in the sky but also in the water and sand.

While sunrise and sunset are dramatic, the midday sun brings out the vibrancy of beach activities, and nighttime might unveil a sky full of stars or even bioluminescent waves on certain beaches.

7. Flora’s Flourish

Many beaches are lined with specific vegetation, from towering palm trees to delicate dune flowers.

Describe the flora’s color, shape, and how it dances in the breeze, adding life to the coastal landscape.

Floral aromas mixed with the salty sea air can create a heady combination.

Bring out the varied fragrances one might encounter while taking a leisurely stroll.

8. Fauna Features

Tidal pools might house starfish, crabs, or tiny fishes.

Coral beaches might be teeming with colorful marine life. Delve into the beauty of the creatures that call the beach their home.

From seagulls to pelicans and sandpipers, the avian world adds movement and sound to the beach.

Their behaviors, from hunting for fish to playful chases, can be delightful to describe.

9. Activity Avenues

Be it children building sandcastles, surfers riding waves, or yoga enthusiasts greeting the sun, beaches often become hubs of activities.

Depicting these can give readers a sense of the beach’s energy.

Not all beachgoers seek company.

Some look for solitude – a quiet corner to read, meditate, or just gaze at the horizon.

Highlighting these moments adds depth and contrast.

10. Textures and Touch

Beyond visuals, the feel of the beach is vital.

Is the sand powdery soft, or is it grainy and rough? Does the water feel icy cold or pleasantly warm?

Engaging the sense of touch can make descriptions palpable.

How does the beach make one feel? Tranquil, exhilarated, nostalgic?

Tapping into emotions can resonate deeply with readers.

11. Tastes of the Tides

A trip to the beach is incomplete without the taste of salt on your lips from the sea spray.

For many beaches, nearby stalls serve fresh seafood.

Describing the tantalizing flavors of the ocean’s bounty can make readers’ mouths water.

Beach destinations often have signature beverages – from coconut water to adult drinks.

Highlighting these drinks can set the tone and mood of the beach scene.

12. Auditory Adventures

Every beach has its unique sound of waves – from gentle lapping to roaring surfs.

These sounds are soothing and rhythmic, making them integral to a beach description.

Include the distant laughter of beachgoers, the chirping of coastal birds, or the playful shout of children.

Such sounds breathe life into the scene.

13. Historical Hints

Many beaches have rich histories, from pirate tales to ancient civilizations.

Weaving in some historical elements can give depth to the beach’s narrative.

Statues, forts, or old lighthouses can stand as silent witnesses to the past. Mentioning these can make a beach scene more vivid and layered.

14. Moods of the Sea

The mood of the sea changes with weather and tides.

While a calm sea can be serene and inviting, a stormy sea can be wild and dramatic. Depicting these moods can influence the story’s atmosphere.

Low tide might reveal hidden treasures like shells or ancient shipwrecks, while high tide brings in waves and fresh mysteries.

The ebb and flow of tides can be metaphorical and descriptive.

15. Colorful Canvases

Describing the varying shades of blues, greens, and golds of the sea, sky, and sand can paint a vivid picture.

Sunlight plays a role in these changing hues, so consider the time of day.

Beaches at night transform into a world of silvery moonlight, shadows, and possibly bioluminescent creatures.

Using a palette of darker shades can set a contrasting and mystical scene.

16. Human Imprints

From lone footprints in the sand to majestic sandcastles, human touch is evident on many beaches.

Describing these imprints can suggest recent activity or age-old legacies.

Sadly, not all human imprints are poetic (or positive).

Describing signs of pollution, like plastic waste, can serve as a stark reminder and add an environmental angle to your narrative.

17. Unique Underwater Worlds

Many beaches are gateways to underwater paradises.

Vividly describing the diverse, colorful corals can transport readers into a magical realm.

Each coral formation has its own charm, from brain corals’ intricate patterns to the elegant sway of sea fans.

Beaches often harbor rich marine ecosystems.

Describing encounters with playful dolphins, curious turtles, or schools of shimmering fish can add depth and wonder to your narrative.

18. Local Life and Culture

Many coastal communities have age-old traditions linked to the sea.

Highlighting local festivals, rituals, or even daily activities like fish markets can provide readers with a cultural immersion.

Local handicrafts or special beachside dishes can offer a sensory feast.

Be it a description of intricate seashell jewelry or the tantalizing aroma of grilled seafood, integrating local flavors can enrich your beach description.

19. Dynamic Dunes and Vegetation

Sand dunes, shaped by the wind, can change forms and create mesmerizing patterns.

Describing these dynamic landscapes can add an element of nature’s artistry to your narrative.

Coastal vegetation, from tall palm trees to dense mangroves, not only adds to the beach’s visual appeal but also plays a crucial role in maintaining coastal ecology.

Diving into descriptions of these can add both beauty and educational value.

20. Seasonal Shifts

While summer might bring in sunbathers, winter could wrap the beach in misty allure. Capturing these seasonal nuances can create varied and engaging settings.

Monsoon or hurricane seasons can drastically change beach atmospheres.

Describing the sheer power of nature during such times can infuse drama and tension into your story.

21. Adventure and Activities

From surfing monstrous waves to peaceful kayaking sessions, beaches offer numerous adventure opportunities.

Describing the thrill and challenges of these activities can inject action into your beach scenes.

Leisurely activities like beachcombing can be therapeutic and rewarding.

Detailed descriptions of discovering seashells, driftwood, or even messages in bottles can add mystery and intrigue.

Here is my video that I made about how to describe a beach in writing:

30 Best Words to Describe a Beach in Writing

I’ve collected some of the best words to describe beaches.

Feel free to use these words to bring beaches to life in your own stories:

Sun-drenched
Crystal-clear
Picturesque

30 Best Phrases to Describe a Beach in Writing

Consider using these phrases to describe the beaches in your stories:

Waves lapping at the shore
Blanket of golden sands
Palm trees swaying gently
Horizon stretching endlessly
Colors of the setting sun
Children building sandcastles
Echo of distant seagulls
Soft whisper of the ocean breeze
Shells scattered like treasures
Footprints washed away
Secrets of the deep blue
Calm before the storm
A dance of playful dolphins
Reflection of a crimson sky
Nature’s perfect canvas
Dunes shaped by the wind
Taste of salt on the lips
Shadows growing longer
Aromas of beachside grills
Moonlit silver waters
Mystery of tidal patterns
Laughter and beach games
Sway of coastal grasses
Rhythms of the coastal life
Stories the tide brings in
Gentle embrace of the sea
Paradise found and lost
Hideaway for dreamers
Dance of light on waves
Sands of time standing still

3 Examples of How to Describe a Beach

Let’s look at three imaginative depictions of beaches, each resonating with the unique essence of its respective genre.

Romance : The serene beach under the moon’s embrace seemed to whisper tales of ageless romances. The moonlight cast a silvery glow on the quiet beach, where waves serenaded the shores. The sands, cool beneath their feet, became their dance floor. Their hearts resonated with the rhythm of the waves, as they lost themselves in each other’s embrace, amidst the vastness of the ocean.
Mystery/Thriller : A heavy atmosphere weighed down on the beach, with secrets buried as deep as its oceanic abyss. The beach was eerily silent, save for the relentless pounding of the waves. A thick fog hung low, concealing much of the shore. As Detective Adams approached, the beam from his flashlight revealed a set of footprints, leading into the mysterious abyss of the night.
Fantasy : To the common eye, it’s a beach. But for those with the sight, The Golden Sands of Elaria were gateways to otherworldly adventures. As dawn broke, the sands sparkled with magic. Mermaids emerged from the turquoise depths, dragons soared above the azure skies, and ancient runes appeared, guiding brave adventurers to hidden realms beneath.

Final Thoughts: How to Describe a Beach in Writing

Describing beaches is truly an ocean of opportunities.

Dive into more treasures by exploring other articles on our site – you never know what pearls of wisdom you’ll unearth!

Figurative Language – Definition and Examples

3-minute read

13th April 2023

In this article, you’ll learn about figurative language: what it is, how to use it, and lots of examples to inspire your everyday speech and descriptive writing .

What is Figurative Language?

Figurative language is language that uses words or expressions with a meaning that is different from the literal interpretation. It is often used to create imagery, evoke emotion, or emphasize a point in a way that literal language cannot. Think of it as painting a picture with words in the minds of your audience – for example, “She was as light as a feather while dancing.”

5 Types of Figurative Language

Below, we’ll look at five types of figurative language – metaphor, idiom, simile, hyperbole, and personification – that you can use in an essay, poem , speech, or conversation.

A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two things by stating that one thing is another, without using “like” or “as.” Metaphors are used to create imagery, evoke emotions, and help readers or listeners to understand an idea or concept in a new and interesting way.

Here are some examples of metaphors:

An idiom is a phrase or expression that has a figurative meaning that is different from the literal meaning of the words. Idioms are often used in informal or conversational language to add color or humor.

Here are some examples of idioms:

If you want to include idioms in your everyday speech or writing, make sure you fully understand the figurative meaning before using them. If used incorrectly, they can cause confusion for your audience.

A simile is a figure of speech that compares two things using “like” or “as.” They are a great writing technique to create vivid imagery and a memorable comparison.

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Here are some examples of similes:

Hyperbole is a figure of speech that involves exaggeration for emphasis or effect. It is mostly used to emphasize a point in a funny or memorable way. Hyperbole is great to use in everyday language or writing, but it’s important to use it in moderation – otherwise, it can come across as insincere or unbelievable.

Here are some examples of hyperbole:

Personification

Personification is a figure of speech in which an inanimate object or animal is given human-like qualities or characteristics. This technique is mostly used in poetry or descriptive writing to create vivid imagery.

Here are some examples of personification:

Figurative language is a great addition to your everyday speech and is frequently used in literature and poetry. It can add depth and richness to language, making it more interesting and expressive. However, it can also be confusing if the reader or listener does not understand the intended meaning of the figurative language. Therefore, it is important to have a basic understanding of figurative language in order to fully appreciate and understand written and spoken communication.

Interested in learning more about how use descriptive language and vivid imagery? Check out our Writing Tips blog to learn more.

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essay about swimming on a beach using figurative language

Write that Scene

May your writing spirit live on forever

How to Write a Beach Scene

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At first, focus on the overall atmosphere.

» A. To start your story, describe the weather, the crowd and their activities.

I. Begin with the weather but ease your way into describing what the five senses are experiencing. Describe the feel of the sand between the character’s toes, the brightness of the sun in their eyes, the sounds of the waves, the sounds of children playing in the sand, the taste of the ocean water. Here are some words you can use:

C. Smell: Seaweed/saltwater Feel: Humid sea air Gritty sand Cool water

II. Use metaphors, similes and color to breathe life into your scene. The ocean is an aqua blue, the sand is pale yellow, and the sun is a fierce, hot yellow. The sky is a gorgeous light blue with big, fluffy white clouds. Here are some phrases you can use:

C. Long golden sands with the waves lapping on the shore.

D. First thing that hit him/her was the salty air.

Listening with both an open heart and ear, Jonah heard the waves crashing against a nearby rock. This rock had been the go-to place for him as a kid. He used to jump off of it and into the water, or sit on it and read his favorite book.

But it didn’t end there. The one thing that made Jonah always returned to the beach wasn’t only because of those reasons. It also had to do with the feel— the emotion he got whenever he looked out far into the ocean. He would forget all forms of agony, pain, regret and frustration. A strong since of peace and calm resided over him always. Only the beach made him feel such things.

With the infinite blue sky above promising sunshine, and the big, fluffy white clouds adding a touch of ecstasy.

Something interesting should happen, no doubt.

» A. A bit of mystery and action is always a good thing.

I. Maybe the character moved to another part of the beach and it’s a lot louder or quieter? Or maybe there’s music, dance and a party.

Example 2:

Then it happened. Just like that! No thinking, no pauses: Jonah jumped into the water, screaming. Carolyn looked his way immediately. Running quickly to save him, she blew her whistle for back up and used her binocular to find the fallen body. Jonah saw her every move through his squinted eyes, however he knew in order to make it look realistic, he had to go under water. So he did and in the water below, he pictured Carolyn rescuing him and kissing him…. uh, I mean… doing CPR.

» B. How does the environment affect your character and what’s happening to them? Use the background to emphasize the character’s emotions rather than describing them.

I. Be sure to give vivid imagery. Allow your reader to continue to see what is going on, in order for the scene to have a realistic feel. What I mean by that is, while you’re talking about the drama, mystery or action events that unfold, every so often add in the “normal stuff” that happens around the character. These can easily become a symbolic meaning. Here are a few “normal, symbolic meaning stuff” to give you an idea:

C. Playful seal take a ride in a wave = happiness, childlike mindset, freedom, endless joy

D. A whale surfacing to get a breath can be seen. = revelation, secrets unfold, epic adventure lying ahead

E. Fishermen’s lines hanging off the pier into the water in hopes of catching dinner. = a new start, overwhelming beginnings, hope for the future, determination to improve one’s circumstances

F. The sunlight starting to fade = dreams are lost, stuck in darkness, forbidden love

G. Surfers exit the sea, and build bonfires in the pits and you smell marshmallows burning in the fire. = treasuring the here and now, aspiration ideals about life and upcoming events, finding happiness in the simplest of things

In other words, relate it back to what is going in the story. If your character is talking to a guy she likes, insert a part in your scene about a seal talking a ride in a wave. If your character is feeling miserable and is walking on the beach feeling lonely, insert a part in your scene about them seeing the left overs of children’s sand castles. Come up with your own if you like. Example 3:

Jonah had been knocked out — he really drowned himself without realizing it. The hot and heavy daydream about Carolyn saving him made him forget to come up for air. By the time Jonah work up, he saw seaweed piled in heaps in various spots on the beach. There were no children and broken shells lined the water line which was filled with debris.

“What, where am I?” Jonah said. Carolyn hovered over him. “Did I go to hell?” Jonah stood up. “There’s no way because you’re here. Tell me, what happened, Carolyn?”

Identify the main purpose of this scene. Don’t let it linger on without meaning.

» A. Connect all that you can in this scene with your plot. Enhance the characters, bring in new revelations, and/or establish a long-lasting setting that will take place throughout the entire novel.

I. What significant thing happens during this scene? Is it someone that your character meets? Something they find? What important event unfolds and how does your character handle it? II. What is the next step? If the scene’s purpose was for your character to meet someone, then are they going to leave the beach and go somewhere else to have a more serious, maybe private conversation? If not, the beach can be their go to area where they meet in secret, far, far away from the rest of the world. III. Does the ocean or animals on the beach have any relevance? Or does this scene on pertain around human beings and their behaviors toward one another? Animals can potentially save your character if they are about to drown. Animals can be in danger and your character tries to help them, and, in the process, they meet the love of their life or a true friend that wants to help this animal too. Hint: it could be the lifeguard.

Example 4:

Carolyn spoke with such elegance. This was the first time Jonah heard her speak. “Your heart stopped beating and I had to do CPR on you. The ambulance is on its way so hang in there, okay.”

“Wait, Carolyn,” Jonah tried to speak as best as he could, “before they take me away, I want to say I love you so very much.”

» B. Exit the scene in style, and leave hints about if the character will return or not.

I. One of the best ways to finish a beach scene is to show how the scenery, setting and/or environment took effect on your character. For instance, did your character have more peace after visiting the beach or feel anger. Then, connect it back to your plot. Whatever trials and tribulations your character faced throughout the book, take from your simple beach scene and incorporate into the story.

Let’s say at the beach your character finally learned how to swim. Then maybe later on in your book have the character save someone who is about to drown, or join a swimming competition. Another example is if your character met someone. Maybe that special someone can later be of importance to your protagonist

II. What is the most important image/memory that both the character and reader should take from this scene? It could be as small as the walk on the beach to as big as learning how to swim, finally. You decide. And, with that image/memory, have your character reminisce about their time on the way back home. Give them a short dialogue or monologue, saying how their time was well spent. (Unless, of course, they had a miserable time at the beach).

Example 5:

Carolyn giggled. “I know,” she said, “before you woke up you were mumbling to yourself. I know everything. All about your crush, all about your fake drowning attempt.”

“And you’re not mad at me?”

Carolyn shrugged. “I was. But I guess I forgave you.”

Jonah closed his eyes and smiled. “See, this is why I love you. I don’t know you very well but your awesome personality shines through.”

“Don’t be corny,” Carolyn said.

“No, I’m being serious. When the ambulance comes to take me away, will I be able to see you again?”

Carolyn nodded. “Of course. You can always find me here.”

“Right, I almost forgot. Silly me. You’re a life guard.”

Carolyn turned red. “Um,” she said softly, “not just a life guard.” She pointed down. “I’m also a mermaid. The ocean is my home.”

Jonah looked down at the large, purple fin he had been resting on. Surprised to see that it was real and in no way a trick, he fainted once again. This time, he had a very vivid dream that only he will ever know about.

** !You might have to scroll down the textbox with your mouse!

Jonah hadn’t been to the beach since his first semester of college started. It had been a long couple of months but he survived nonetheless. And, instead of going to a frat party to drink himself silly, he wanted to revisit the place where he first fell in love with life. Could it have been the dazzling sand that sparked in the golden sunlight, or the hungry seagulls beating their wings against the ambush of wind. Listening with both an open heart and ear, Jonah heard the waves crashing against a nearby rock. This rock had been the go-to place for him as a kid. He used to jump off of it and into the water, or sit on it and read his favorite book.

As the memories poured in, Jonah headed over to the rock where he knew a flood of happiness would follow him. The best stress relief wasn’t popping pills or smoking a joint with his buds, nah… it was the peaceful serenity of the beach. The smell of saltwater traveling up his nostrils, releasing a spell-like hypnotic trance on him. Yes, it was the gritty sand against his bare feet, the tall, hard rock positioned appropriately against his butt as he read a book. But it didn’t end there. The one thing that made Jonah always returned to the beach wasn’t only because of those reasons. It also had to do with the feel— the emotion he got whenever he looked out far into the ocean. He would forget all forms of agony, pain, regret and frustration. A strong since of peace and calm resided over him always. Only the beach made him feel such things. With the infinite blue sky above promising sunshine, and the big, fluffy white clouds adding a touch of ecstasy.

Though, all of this fantasizing buildup went out his mind the moment he saw Carolyn, the life guard. She was ten years older than him, but ever since Jonah could remember he had a major crush on her. Watching her sexy body climb up in her high chair with the binoculars in one hand and a whistle around her neck, gave Jonah an idea. A devious idea. The other beach goers meant nothing to him; he wanted her to notice him one way or another…. even if it meant fake drowning. Then it happened. Just like that! No thinking, no pauses: Jonah jumped into the water, screaming. Carolyn looked his way immediately. Running quickly to save him, she blew her whistle for back up and used her binocular to find the fallen body. Jonah saw her every move through his squinted eyes, however he knew in order to make it look realistic, he had to go under water. So he did and in the water below, he pictured Carolyn rescuing him and kissing him…. uh, I mean… doing CPR. Jonah had been knocked out — he really drowned himself without realizing it. The hot and heavy daydream about Carolyn saving him made him forget to come up for air. By the time Jonah work up, he saw seaweed piled in heaps in various spots on the beach. There were no children and broken shells lined the water line which was filled with debris.

Carolyn spoke with such elegance. This was the first time Jonah heard her speak. “Your heart stopped beating and I had to do CPR on you.The ambulance is on its way so hang in there, okay.”

Carolyn giggled. “I know,” she said, “before you woke up you were mumbling to yourself. I know everything. All about your crush, all about your fake drowning attempt.”

7 thoughts on “ How to Write a Beach Scene ”

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Descriptive Essay about the Beach

A descriptive essay about the beach is one of the write ups you may be required to come up with in your English learning courses. It’s about giving a vivid depiction of your encounters at the seashore. In our previous post about how to write a descriptive essay, we explained the need for students to paint the picture of the object in the readers mind. The main objective is to make the audience feel as if they were involved in the experience. Read on essays based on different types parenting style samples.

This kind of writing will inspire you to explore your linguistic prowess as well as imagination. The success is achieved if your audience resonates with your words. To make this possible, you need to have ‘thoughts that glow’ as well as ‘words that flow’.

If you’re required to write a descriptive essay about the beach, there are things you should put to consideration. This post is all about helping you get a grade A in such an assignment.

Tips on Writing the Best Descriptive Essay

Have experience about the beach. It’s critical that you get conversant with what you are writing about. If you haven’t visited the seashore, try reading widely about the experience. Or, grab a documentary movie.
Keep your statements clear and concise. Vague information may not only be confusing but also boring.
Describe every aspect of the beach. Write about the weather, water, soil, sound, smell, sky, horizon, sun, flora and fauna. You can also talk about the people at the beach. Don’t forget your feelings.
Have a logical organization. You can choose to pick a theme for every paragraph. Or, you can keep a chronological flow. Also, be sure to have an introduction and conclusion paragraph.
Remember to review your work after writing.

Free Descriptive Essay Samples About the Beach

Last summer, I had the chance to visit my aunt at her coastal home. The octogenarian , I have to admit, lives in one of the world’s most serene places. The beach is a fantastic phenomenon and the fun that comes along with it is overwhelming. Two weeks into the visit, my cousins took me to the seashore, and I just couldn’t get enough of it. I fell in love with the splashing waters and cool breeze. I hated that evening would come and we’d have to leave the blissful sensation of the beach. I nonetheless promised myself to make the most out of the short time we would spend there.

We set out early in the morning with our cameras and light shorts. A light breeze blew and it took my soul with it. I felt like I was in a whole new world. The wind brought fresh air to my nostrils and I just couldn’t help but pump as much as I could. It not only filled my lungs with rejuvenating oxygen, but also my mind with a hope of having the best day of my life. My ears weren’t left behind either. It’s like the fresh air was singing melodious blues as we walked. I was sure experiencing something I’d never experienced before.

We arrived on our scooter right on time for the rising sun. Never in my life had I seen such a majestic view. We’d left home early on right before the sun would mark its territories. And, apparently, our cameras were getting the best work they’d had for years. Towards the east, the sky was literally burning. The first rays were already throwing their warmth across the sky. They were doing just like cheerleaders would do during an NFA match. Or, better still, like the escort guards from the Secret Service do before the Head of State arrives.

The rays did their job pretty fine. They were yellow and glittered like the flames of an enormous camping bonfire! While the sky was showing its beauty, the sea was glittering and reflecting back. It was as if they were partners colluding to welcome a big guest. The yellow glare made our photography interesting and every shot was worth it.

The sun finally hit the surface. The ground acknowledged its presence and started glittering. The tiny sand particles shed silver lights all over the beach. The sweet rays caressed my skin and I now understood why everyone at the seashore liked to expose theirs. It was a gentle warmth, I have to say!

My excitement was rejuvenated. But I couldn’t possibly beat the birds. They shouted with a wild joy. They jumped up and down. I saw several of them chase after sea creatures. It was marvelous watching the birds dive into the water and suddenly shoot up into the sky like rockets. No sooner had we joined them into the diving than people started coming out of their homes. The shore was flocked now. Some came for entertainment while others were looking for fishing grounds. It was a beehive of activities I tell you.

When evening came, it was yet another scenery in the sky as the sun dived into horizons of the sea. People started going back to their homes and the birds gradually became silent. The evening breeze blew, bringing another refreshing smell of the salty water to my nostrils. Waves of water splashed onto the coral reefs as the tides took new positions. The fishermen set out their nets as if their day was just beginning. Suddenly, my aunt was calling. She knew we were having too much fun, and that we’d possibly get late.

Explore a descriptive essay sample about a person written by our team of experts.

Sample 2: A Day at the Beach

We arrive at the seashore at day break. Bright yellow rays of the sun greet us. Their golden mien reflects on the surface of the water. The sun – the main guest – hasn’t arrived yet, but the beach is well lit already. The blue cloudless sky is overly yellow towards the east, which alerts that the sun will be ruling the day beginning soon. A breeze blows by, filled with a refreshing smell of the salty sea water. It gets me reminiscing about my childhood. I get nostalgic of molding magnificence with the sea sand. But today is another day altogether. I’m far older, with a wife, a son, and a daughter. Today is their day. I am just a companion.

The sun is now in full control of the seashore and its effects can be felt by everyone. It’s warm, and the air is filled with moisture from the sea. The ground is mildly warm, and the fine sand particles are glittering like scattered pieces of silver. I can’t help but keep getting strands of my hair off my sight as the wind blows them wildly. My wife’s case is more serious. But she looks gorgeous at the beach and seeing her playing with my kids makes me feel how quick I’ve grown and transformed. I look back at my childhood with a reassuring gaze as I watch my two bundles of joy run alongside their mother in the warm sand at the shore.

The birds stop singing now. Their entertainment about the new day is gone and they are focused on food search. It’s fun to watch them jump into the water, capture crabs and fishes, before darting into the air at electric speeds, like shooting stars.

My son is dying to swim. I know this side of the ocean isn’t crocodile- or shark-infested, but I still want to be sure. I remember that as young boys, we were so fond of swimming until when one day we saw a scary scaly rock moving on the water. It looked like a submarine that kept emerging and submerging. One boy yelled after he recognized it was a baby crocodile. I just feared reptiles and he saved us from what would be an end of an era for us. After confirming that it is safe to swim, I allow my kids to swim on one of the shallow waters around us.

I notice I am not the only one who cares about my children. A few yards away, a kingfisher is already teaching her chicks how to get food. They descend from the palm tree at the edge of the sea. The baby kingfisher can’t swim but her mum is doing all she can to offer the help. I also take a snap of a school of dolphins. They are far from the beach but with the help of my binoculars, my wife and I enjoy the glamor of seeing them jump up and take dives as they chase a boat.

It’s evening now. My family is happy that they have had as much fun as they’d hoped for. We’ve already eaten roasted fish from the lake for lunch. The beach, flocked with swimmers and sunbathers a few moments ago, is now getting less busy. Fishermen are starting their night shifts. The sun is already diving into the horizon of the water, leaving behind a huge yellow light. Birds start to sing again. It’s time for me to drive my family back home.

The beach is the place I go to whenever I need to relax and forget about all the hustles of life and just enjoy myself. As usual, my last visit to there was a memorable one. Already in my beach attire, a draught blew across the sea sweeping away with it my spirit. The sun split its way through the scattered cumulus clouds as if it was shying away from giving some light. As I took in a breath of fresh air, my nose was tingled by the smell of the salty sea. A mine field of corals made up the beach sand, with an abundance of multicolored sea shells. A bed of blankets was however formed by the sand at the same time. Like my previous visit, this visit was promising to be one filled with immense joy and relaxation.

My heart somehow pounded like a drum-set of an orchestra from the way the beach sand flowed onto my feet and tickled my toes. The feeling was delicate especially given that the sand grains were so fine it was almost impossible to see them through the human eye. The sea waves soothed me through a dulcet lullaby thus drawing me closer to them as I reminisced my childhood. It was like they were giving me an invitation with wide open arms. However, my feet would not oblige at this time because they were penetrated by the frigid waves. So, I just sat down with my head raised to the sky as I watched the sun stretch out and make its way across the sky.

The warm sun rays gradually glowed as minutes passed by, reaching down to me and giving me a shining streak of light as if to tell me, “Hey, hold my hand!” I received an immediate boost of excitement as the blazing light pierced through my cold skin. Tracing its way up the sky, the sun distributed its light to everything it could lay its sight on. Birds flying across the sky trying to claim it for themselves were singing sweet melodies with high spirits into my ears. From the sun rays, the sky turned into an illuminated shimmering blue color from a dark misty indigo one. The scattered rainless clouds that were initially blocking sun rays melted away into thin air and gave way for the water to heat up.

I slowly made my way to the edge of the beach once again and immersed my toe into the now swiftly heating up water. I hastily withdrew it as it felt like it was melting away into the sea in spite of having been numb before. The pungent smell that came from decayed algae filled the air and my acidic stomach responded by turning to its side. I could hear the sounds of fish that were possibly calling for attention from under the sea. I could at the same time tell that the fish were afraid of the sea creatures that were hungrily preying on smaller water creatures for lunch. This was a survival tactic, I could tell.

As the evening was drawing, people poured onto the beach to enjoy the serenity and perfect weather. Children ran up and down as laughter filled up every corner of the beach and people even played beach football and volleyball. The day was finally coming to an end and one by one, people started leaving slowly after what had been a day full of excitement. It was unfortunate that as much as I had wanted to continue staying on the beach and continue undergoing this memorable experience, my turn to go home finally came. I left with a heart filled with happiness and peace and a tired body and promised myself that I would go back there as many times as I would be able to.

Instructions; Write an essay of 2 double-spaced pages which achieves two goals:

Discuss what your ideal beach might look like. What would your ideal beach look like? What elements would it include? Consider things such as the physical environment, the social atmosphere, the socio-cultural composition, availability of services, population (or absence thereof), quality of the water or surf, location, climate, political composition, language, ethnicity, or any other quality you might consider important. Answered on top

Some ideas for THEME. This is a suggestive list.

Design your ideal beach. This beach might draw on elements of existing beaches or be entirely fictional.

Explore some of the interesting descriptive topics that wll give you brilliant ideas.

Essay about the Beach

Diamond beach is what most people would call “a little paradise or a piece of heaven on earth.” The spectacular, flawless white beach stretches with no limit for the eye as it goes across the ocean so amazingly. Just by gazing at the endless sands, as the sun’s rays rest on the waters freshly emerging from their resting place, anyone would be astounded by the beauty of nature. The clouds timidly exposed as the sky beams blue making it obvious that this would be a beautiful day. It is not hard to hear the ocean whisper its promises for the day due to the serenity of diamond, as the graceful sounds of songbirds light up the morning mood. The reigning feeling is that of a soothing calmness that makes life difficult for an iota of gloom. Nature seems to be passing across the message that a great day filled with happiness and devoid of mishaps should be expected.

The smell of fresh air taking you away from all the hustles and bustles of a polluted environment in an ordinary day is nothing you would want to miss. In a world where air pollution has become so rampant, I believe allowing everyone to experience the fresh breeze would be a great lesson for conserving our ecosystem. The freshness and tranquility of the atmosphere at Diamond beach defines a habitable ecosystem that every living thing deserves to experience. Being at this beach makes you appreciate that this world is truly a beautiful place. You forget all your worries as your mind sinks into the serenity making you want to live forever. It is one place that reminds us to appreciate life and conserves the beauty of nature. It directly talks to us to acknowledge that life does not have to be first-paced all the time. It makes the importance of taking time off to real and unwind become so real and necessary.

Diamond beach is a rare and precious place to be. I know millions of beaches exist globally, but none is like the diamond beach. The light kisses from the coastal breeze, the smell freshness, the purity of the sand, and the crimson beauty of water is out of this world. Regardless of whichever angle you may view the beach from, you will not miss noticing the splendor of this natural feature. Every step in the beach leaves fine-grained sand shifting as if paving the way for the next step you take. With every motion forward, you feel like you are walking on freshly fallen snow. The only difference is that the crystalline white blanket bequeathed by the winter normally is cold but on the beach, it is warm thanks to the sun rays.

During the day, you cannot fail to notice a change in the cute sand particles as they form a golden reflection from the sun. It appears as if the sun rays are trapped inside the unmelting sand crystals forming the beautiful yellow golden color. Interestingly, upon picking the sand gravels, they rest on your palm like diamond crystals illuminating a white color between your fingers. Despite the midday heat, being at the beach at this time is an opportunity to witness its brightness entirely. The fact that it is conserved as a private beach adds to its numerous advantages and lessens congestion giving everyone a chance to connect with nature undisturbed. It is almost impossible not to notice the ocean at this point of the day. It waves curl up and down, rolling in white tipped shapes, spreading like fine silky laces over the beach. The way they softly crash on the beach or violently splash their waters overboard is simply stunning. The gentle sound that emanates from their contact with the beach makes the feeling even more fulfilling.

If the ocean were a person, I would describe it in many ways. It would be at one point introverted, calm, still, graceful but at another point extroverted, throwing waves aggressively, outgoing and interactive. The behavior of the ocean cannot be described as noisy despite all the commotion that appears to be going on. Only slight wave sounds that a keen soul would hear. I think the ocean has many secrets it would share with people if it could talk. For me, its silent sounds take me back to a time of reflecting and appreciating life. They give new meaning to life. With every turn of the wave that comes and goes, I remember we are all passing by in this world, and the best thing to do is appreciate what we have, before the next wave takes over. For a moment, I am lost in thoughts when a palm leaf drops on my silky dress and brings me back to reality.

It is almost impossible to go on discussing diamond without describing the splendid physical environment that surrounds the beach. The physical environment of the beach is superb. The first thing that I notice as I focus my attention on the beach is the relaxation mood. People from all age groups can be seen on beach seats with colorful costumes and fluffy towels. I guess they are just from enjoying a swim. On that note, I should not forget to state that lovers of swimming will enjoy being in Diamond. The water temperature is never hot or cold but perfect for a swim. Small adorable children in white costumes appear like angels creating sand castles as others run across to float kites on the cool breeze. The teens are frolicking with beach balls having a time of their lives as the young adults cuddle, hold hands, and share special moments while taking a walk along the shoreline.

A few meters away a particular group of people can be seen excluded for religious reasons. As I draw my focus to that group, I realize that they are having an outdoor yoga class. What a great place to connect with your internal senses and spirituality. Diamond is definitely the place to be for yoga especially during morning or evening hours. There is little interruption and the silence is just what you need. Upon inquiring from one of the yoga instructors, I am told that the classes have been going on for a while in the same spot. According to the instructor, people have found peace in their lives since they started visiting Diamond beach for yoga. If you love yoga, you have found a recreation and a spiritual connection site.

Diamond beach stands out in the Caribbean Island of modern beach houses giving the inhabitants a panoramic ocean view. The mastermind behind the exterior was Chad while Davis studio aided with the interior and Enzo the landscaping to give an elegant piece of artwork. The prowess and architectural expertise is incredible as everyone who walks to the beach never fails to notice the splendor. Attractive colors that allow calm and light are a perfect complement to the beach which is bright during the day. The Hi-tech beach houses which have been designed in the latest architectural designs are similar, all having balconies facing the sandy beach. From the balcony, you enjoy seeing the spectacular ocean view as lounges of water cover up the entire place. Those living or visiting Diamond enjoy beautiful weather which cannot be described as sunny or humid. It is just perfect.

Serving the visitors, tourists, and locals in the beach is the Diamond hotel. It’s shaped like a diamond and is an exquisite place to be if you plan to spend a few days on the beach and do not live nearby. They offer great room services and maintain a high level of hygiene and cleanliness with excellent customer care services. The rooms are ample and spacious with perfect temperatures and an excellent view of the beach. You get to enjoy free internet connection, music system, and laptops for use while you enjoy visiting the beach. The rates are cost-friendly as the hotel packages cater for people from all age groups. If you have toddlers, you should not worry as there are special cots and nurses to attend to children. If you have special needs, the staircase and special rooms have been modified to meet them. The reception, ambiance, and hospitality of the hotel will make you stay longer. Recreational activities are available with a fully-serviced gym for fitness, spa, massage, and beauty parlor to make you gorgeous as you go out. Besides the remarkable fitness and beauty services, there are spectacular mouthwatering and finger-licking delicacies to choose from. The food is freshly served upon placing an order while alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are also in plenty. In general thus, visiting Diamond beach is a memorable and magnificent experience. Getting a chance to interact with the lovely, friendly Caribbean people and share in their rich dance culture could even make you want to change your nationality.

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Figurative Language

Figurative Language Definition

What is figurative language? Here’s a quick and simple definition:

Figurative language is language that contains or uses figures of speech . When people use the term "figurative language," however, they often do so in a slightly narrower way. In this narrower definition, figurative language refers to language that uses words in ways that deviate from their literal interpretation to achieve a more complex or powerful effect. This view of figurative language focuses on the use of figures of speech that play with the meaning of words, such as metaphor , simile , personification , and hyperbole .

Some additional key details about figurative language:

Figurative language is common in all sorts of writing, as well as in spoken language.
Figurative language refers to language that contains figures of speech, while figures of speech are the particular techniques. If figurative speech is like a dance routine, figures of speech are like the various moves that make up the routine.
It's a common misconception that imagery, or vivid descriptive language, is a kind of figurative language. In fact, writers can use figurative language as one tool to help create imagery, but imagery does not have to use figurative language.

Figurative Language Pronunciation

Here's how to pronounce figurative language: fig -yer-uh-tiv lang -gwij

Figures of Speech and Figurative Language

To fully understand figurative language, it's helpful to have a basic understanding of figures of speech. More specifically, it's helpful to understand the two main types of figures of speech: tropes and schemes .

Tropes are figures of speech that play with and shift the expected and literal meaning of words.
Schemes are figures of speech that involve a change from the typical mechanics of a sentence, such as the order, pattern, or arrangement of words.

Put even more simply: tropes play with the meaning of words, while schemes play with the structure of words, phrases, and sentences.

The Different Things People Mean When They Say Figurative Language

When people say figurative language, they don't always mean the precise same thing. Here are the three different ways people usually talk about figurative language:

Dictionary definition of figurative language: According to the dictionary, figurative language is simply any language that contains or uses figures of speech. This definition would mean that figurative language includes the use of both tropes and schemes.
Much more common real world use of figurative language: However, when people (including teachers) refer to figurative language, they usually mean language that plays with the literal meaning of words. This definition sees figurative language as language that primarily involves the use of tropes.
Another common real world use of figurative language: Some people define figurative language as including figures of speech that play with meaning as well as a few other common schemes that affect the rhythm and sound of text, such as alliteration and assonance .

What does all that boil down to for you? If you hear someone talking about figurative language, you can usually safely assume they are referring to language that uses figures of speech to play with the meaning of words and, perhaps, with the way that language sounds or feels.

Common Types of Figurative Language

There are many, many types of figures of speech that can be involved in figurative language. Some of the most common are:

Metaphor : A figure of speech that makes a comparison between two unrelated things by stating that one thing is another thing, even though this isn't literally true. For example, the phrase "her lips are a blooming rose" obviously doesn't literally mean what it says—it's a metaphor that makes a comparison between the red beauty and promise of a blooming rose with that of the lips of the woman being described.
Simile : A simile, like a metaphor, makes a comparison between two unrelated things. However, instead of stating that one thing is another thing (as in metaphor), a simile states that one thing is like another thing. An example of a simile would be to say "they fought like cats and dogs."
Oxymoron : An oxymoron pairs contradictory words in order to express new or complex meanings. In the phrase "parting is such sweet sorrow" from Romeo and Juliet , "sweet sorrow" is an oxymoron that captures the complex and simultaneous feelings of pain and pleasure associated with passionate love.
Hyperbole : Hyperbole is an intentional exaggeration of the truth, used to emphasize the importance of something or to create a comic effect. An example of a hyperbole is to say that a backpack "weighs a ton." No backpack literally weighs a ton, but to say "my backpack weighs ten pounds" doesn't effectively communicate how burdensome a heavy backpack feels.
Personification : In personification, non-human things are described as having human attributes, as in the sentence, "The rain poured down on the wedding guests, indifferent to their plans." Describing the rain as "indifferent" is an example of personification, because rain can't be "indifferent," nor can it feel any other human emotion.
Idiom : An idiom is a phrase that, through general usage within a particular group or society, has gained a meaning that is different from the literal meaning of the words. The phrase "it's raining cats and dogs" is known to most Americans to mean that it's raining hard, but an English-speaking foreigner in the United States might find the phrase totally confusing.
Onomatopoeia : Onomatopoeia is a figure of speech in which words evoke the actual sound of the thing they refer to or describe. The “boom” of a firework exploding, the “tick tock” of a clock, and the “ding dong” of a doorbell are all examples of onomatopoeia.
Synecdoche : In synecdoche, a part of something is used to refer to its whole . For example, "The captain commands one hundred sails" is a synecdoche that uses "sails" to refer to ships—ships being the thing of which a sail is a part.
Metonymy : Metonymy is a figure of speech in which an object or concept is referred to not by its own name, but instead by the name of something closely associated with it. For example, in "Wall Street prefers lower taxes," the New York City street that was the original home of the New York Stock Exchange stands in for (or is a "metonym" for) the entire American financial industry.
Alliteration : In alliteration, the same sound repeats in a group of words, such as the “ b ” sound in: “ B ob b rought the b ox of b ricks to the b asement.” Alliteration uses repetition to create a musical effect that helps phrases to stand out from the language around them.
Assonance : The repetition of vowel sounds repeat in nearby words, such as the " ee " sound: "the squ ea ky wh ee l gets the gr ea se." Like alliteration, assonance uses repeated sounds to create a musical effect in which words echo one another.

Figurative Language vs. Imagery

Many people (and websites) argue that imagery is a type of figurative language. That is actually incorrect. Imagery refers to a writers use of vivid and descriptive language to appeal to the reader's senses and more deeply evoke places, things, emotions, and more. The following sentence uses imagery to give the reader a sense of how what is being described looks, feels, smells, and sounds:

The night was dark and humid, the scent of rotting vegetation hung in the air, and only the sound of mosquitoes broke the quiet of the swamp.

This sentence uses no figurative language. Every word means exactly what it says, and the sentence is still an example of the use of imagery. That said, imagery can use figurative language, often to powerful effect:

The night was dark and humid, heavy with a scent of rotting vegetation like a great-aunt's heavy and inescapable perfume, and only the whining buzz of mosquitoes broke the silence of the swamp.

In this sentence, the description has been made more powerful through the use of a simile ("like a great-aunt's..."), onomatopoeia ("whining buzz," which not only describes but actually sounds like the noise made by mosquitoes), and even a bit of alliteration in the " s ilence of the s wamp."

To sum up: imagery is not a form of figurative language. But a writer can enhance his or her effort to write imagery through the use of figurative language.

Figurative Language Examples

Figurative language is more interesting, lively, beautiful, and memorable than language that's purely literal. Figurative language is found in all sorts of writing, from poetry to prose to speeches to song lyrics, and is also a common part of spoken speech. The examples below show a variety of different types of figures of speech. You can see many more examples of each type at their own specific LitChart entries.

Figurative Language Example: Metaphor

Metaphor in shakespeare's romeo and juliet.

In Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet , Romeo uses the following metaphor in Act 2 Scene 2 of Romeo and Juliet , after sneaking into Juliet's garden and catching a glimpse of her on her balcony:

But, soft! what light through yonder window breaks? It is the east, and Juliet is the sun.

Romeo compares Juliet to the sun not only to describe how radiantly beautiful she is, but also to convey the full extent of her power over him. He's so taken with Juliet that her appearances and disappearances affect him like those of the sun. His life "revolves" around Juliet like the earth orbits the sun.

Figurative Language Example: Simile

In this example of a simile from Slaughterhouse-Five , Billy Pilgrim emerges from an underground slaughterhouse where he has been held prisoner by the Germans during the deadly World War II firebombing of Dresden:

It wasn't safe to come out of the shelter until noon the next day. When the Americans and their guards did come out, the sky was black with smoke. The sun was an angry little pinhead. Dresden was like the moon now , nothing but minerals. The stones were hot. Everybody else in the neighborhood was dead.

Vonnegut uses simile to compare the bombed city of Dresden to the moon in order to capture the totality of the devastation—the city is so lifeless that it is like the barren moon.

Figurative Language Example: Oxymoron

These lines from Chapter 7 of Ernest Hemingway's For Whom the Bell Tolls describe an encounter between Robert Jordan, a young American soldier fighting in the Spanish Civil War, and his lover María.

She held herself tight to him and her lips looked for his and then found them and were against them and he felt her, fresh, new and smooth and young and lovely with the warm, scalding coolness and unbelievable to be there in the robe that was as familiar as his clothes, or his shoes, or his duty and then she said, frightenedly, “And now let us do quickly what it is we do so that the other is all gone.”

The couple's relationship becomes a bright spot for both of them in the midst of war, but ultimately also a source of pain and confusion for Jordan, as he struggles to balance his obligation to fight with his desire to live happily by Maria's side. The contradiction contained within the oxymoron "scalding coolness" emphasizes the couple's conflicting emotions and impossible situation.

Figurative Language Example: Hyperbole

Elizabeth Bennet, the most free-spirited character in Pride and Prejudice , refuses Mr. Darcy's first marriage proposal with a string of hyperbole :

From the very beginning, from the first moment I may almost say, of my acquaintance with you, your manners impressing me with the fullest belief of your arrogance, your conceit, and your selfish disdain of the feelings of others, were such as to form that ground-work of disapprobation, on which succeeding events have built so immoveable a dislike; and I had not known you a month before I felt that you were the last man in the world whom I could ever be prevailed on to marry.

Elizabeth's closing statement, that Darcy is the "last man in the world" whom she would ever marry, is an obvious hyperbole. It's hard to believe that Elizabeth would rather marry, say, an axe murderer or a diseased pirate than Mr. Darcy. Even beyond the obvious exaggeration, Austen's use of hyperbole in this exchange hints at the fact that Elizabeth's feelings for Darcy are more complicated than she admits, even to herself. Austen drops various hints throughout the beginning of the novel that Elizabeth feels something beyond mere dislike for Darcy. Taken together with these hints, Elizabeth's hyperbolic statements seem designed to convince not only Darcy, but also herself, that their relationship has no future.

Figurative Language Example: Personification

In Chapter 1 of The Scarlet Letter , Nathaniel Hawthorne describes a wild rose bush that grows in front of Salem's gloomy wooden jail:

But, on one side of the portal, and rooted almost at the threshold, was a wild rose-bush, covered, in this month of June, with its delicate gems, which might be imagined to offer their fragrance and fragile beauty to the prisoner as he went in, and to the condemned criminal as he came forth to his doom, in token that the deep heart of Nature could pity and be kind to him.

In the context of the novel's setting in 17th century Boston, this rose bush, which grows wild in front of an establishment dedicated to enforcing harsh puritan values, symbolizes those elements of human nature that cannot be repressed, no matter how strict a community's moral code may be: desire, fertility, and a love of beauty. By personifying the rosebush as "offering" its blossoms to reflect Nature's pity (Nature is also personified here as having a "heart"), Hawthorne turns the passive coincidence of the rosebush's location into an image of human nature actively resisting its constraints.

Figurative Language Example: Idiom

Figurative language example: onomatopoeia.

In Act 3, Scene 3 of Shakespeare's The Tempest , Caliban uses onomatopoeia to convey the noises of the island.

Be not afeard. The isle is full of noises, Sounds, and sweet airs that give delight and hurt not. Sometimes a thousand twangling instruments Will hum about mine ears, and sometime voices...

The use of onomatopoeia makes the audience feel the sounds on the island, rather than just have to take Caliban's word about there being noises.

Figurative Language Example: Synecdoche

In Act 4, Scene 3 of Shakespeare's Macbeth , an angry Macbeth kicks out a servant by saying:

Take thy face hence.

Here, "thy face" stands in for "you." Macbeth is simply telling the servant to leave, but his use of synecdoche makes the tone of his command more harsh and insulting because he uses synecdoche to treat the servant not as a person but as an object, a body part.

Figurative Language Example: Metonymy

In his song "Juicy," Notorious B.I.G. raps:

Now I'm in the limelight 'cause I rhyme tight

Here he's using "limelight" as a metonymy for fame (a "limelight" was a kind of spotlight used in old theaters, and so it came to be associated with the fame of being in the spotlight). Biggie's use of metonymy here also sets him up for a sweet rhyme.

Figurative Language Example: Alliteration

In his song "Rap God," Eminem shows his incredible lyrical dexterity by loading up the alliteration :

S o I wanna make sure, s omewhere in this chicken s cratch I S cribble and doodle enough rhymes T o maybe t ry t o help get s ome people through t ough t imes But I gotta k eep a few punchlines Just in c ase, ‘ c ause even you un s igned Rappers are hungry l ooking at me l ike it's l unchtime…

Why Do Writers Use Figurative Language?

The term figurative language refers to a whole host of different figures of speech, so it's difficult to provide a single definitive answer to why writers use figurative language. That said, writers use figurative language for a wide variety of reasons:

Interest and beauty: Figurative language allows writes to express descriptions, ideas, and more in ways that are unique and beautiful.
Complexity and power: Because figurative language can create meanings that go beyond the literal, it can capture complex ideas, feelings, descriptions, or truths that cause readers to see things in a new way, or more closely mirror the complex reality of the world.
Visceral affect: Because figurative language can both impact the rhythm and sound of language, and also connect the abstract (say, love) with the concrete (say, a rose), it can help language make an almost physical impact on a reader.
Humor: By allowing a writer to layer additional meanings over literal meanings, or even to imply intended meanings that are the opposite of the literal meaning, figurative language gives writers all sorts of options for creating humor in their writing.
Realism: People speak and even think in terms of the sorts of comparisons that underlie so much figurative language. Rather than being flowery, figurative language allows writers to describe things in ways that match how people really think about them, and to create characters who themselves feel real.

In general, figurative language often makes writing feel at once more accessible and powerful, more colorful, surprising, and deep.

Other Helpful Figurative Language Resources

The dictionary definition of figurative : Touches on figurative language, as well as some other meanings of the word.
Figurative and Frost : Examples of figurative language in the context of the poetry of Robert Frost.
Figurative YouTube : A video identifying various forms of figurative language from movies and television shows.
Wikipedia on literal and figurative language : A bit technical, but with a good list of examples.

The printed PDF version of the LitCharts literary term guide on Figurative Language

PDFs for all 136 Lit Terms we cover
Downloads of 1929 LitCharts Lit Guides
Teacher Editions for every Lit Guide
Explanations and citation info for 40,694 quotes across 1929 books
Downloadable (PDF) line-by-line translations of every Shakespeare play
Alliteration
Figure of Speech
Onomatopoeia
Personification
Bildungsroman
Understatement
Epanalepsis
Falling Action
End-Stopped Line
Extended Metaphor
Foreshadowing
Static Character
Internal Rhyme

30 Metaphors for the Beach: A Journey Through Words and Waves

Ah, the beach! It’s not just a place; it’s a feeling, an experience, a slice of paradise. And when we talk about the beach, we often use metaphors, those lovely linguistic tools that help us express our thoughts and emotions more vividly.

So, let’s dive into the world of beach metaphors, where each phrase paints a picture and tells a story.

If you need legal help, like sorting out a problem or understanding your rights, a lawyer service can guide you through it, just like a map helps you find your way on a trip to the beach. Check out this website for examples of how to describe the beach using similes: Similes for the beach . And if you’re curious about idioms related to the beach, here’s a link for that too: Idioms for the beach .

What is a Metaphor for the Beach?

A metaphor for the beach is like a key to a secret garden; it unlocks a world of imagination and interpretation.

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What is a simile?

Identify the simile in the following sentence: “She swims like a fish.”

What is a metaphor?

Which of the following is a metaphor?

What is an idiom?

What does the idiom “break the ice” mean?

What is an adjective?

Choose the adjective in the following sentence: “The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.”

What is an abbreviation?

What does the abbreviation “e.g.” stand for?

What is a verb?

Identify the verb in the following sentence: “The cat sleeps on the sofa.”

“Out of the frying pan into the fire” is an example of:

Which of the following is an adjective?

The abbreviation “NASA” stands for:

Choose the metaphor in the following sentence: “Time is a thief.”

What does the idiom “hit the books” mean?

Which of the following sentences contains a simile?

“LOL” is an abbreviation for:

Identify the verb in this sentence: “They whispered secrets into the night.”

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These metaphors aren’t just phrases; they’re gateways to understanding our connection with this magical place where land meets sea.

Here’s a summary of the metaphors for the beach presented earlier, arranged in a table format for clarity:

These metaphors offer a rich and varied linguistic palette, painting the beach in vivid, imaginative colors that resonate with our experiences and emotions.

Metaphors for the Beach

1. the beach is a golden ribbon.

Meaning: This metaphor paints the beach as a precious, beautiful strip, likening its sandy shores to a luxurious, golden ribbon.
In a Sentence: As the sun set, the beach transformed into a golden ribbon, stretching endlessly under the vibrant skies.

2. The Shore is Nature’s Dance Floor

Meaning: This metaphor suggests the shore as a lively, dynamic space where elements of nature – waves, wind, and wildlife – come together in a harmonious dance.
In a Sentence: With each wave crashing and receding, the shore became nature’s dance floor, alive with rhythmic movements.

3. Sand is a Sun-Kissed Canvas

Meaning: The sand is depicted as a blank canvas, touched and colored by the sun, ready for footprints and creations.
In a Sentence: As we walked, our feet painted stories on the sun-kissed canvas of the sand.

4. Waves are Whispering Secrets

Meaning: This metaphor ascribes a mysterious, gentle quality to the waves, suggesting they carry hidden messages or secrets.
In a Sentence: I sat by the shore, listening as the waves whispered secrets from the depths of the ocean.

5. Seagulls are White Kites in the Sky

Meaning: Likening seagulls to kites, this metaphor emphasizes their graceful, soaring movements in the sky.
In a Sentence: Overhead, the seagulls soared like white kites, dancing with the wind.

6. The Ocean is a Vast, Blue Mirror

Meaning: This metaphor compares the ocean’s surface to a mirror, reflecting the sky and surrounding beauty.
In a Sentence: As the day cleared, the ocean transformed into a vast, blue mirror, mirroring the endless sky.

7. Beachcombing is a Treasure Hunt

Meaning: This metaphor suggests that searching the beach for shells and other items is akin to an adventurous treasure hunt.
In a Sentence: Every morning, we embarked on a treasure hunt, beachcombing for nature’s hidden gems.

8. Sandcastles are Dreams in the Sand

Meaning: This metaphor views sandcastles as manifestations of our dreams and aspirations, built on the sand.
In a Sentence: The children’s laughter filled the air as they built their dreams in the sand, one sandcastle at a time.

9. The Shore is a Tranquil Sanctuary

Meaning: The shore is depicted as a peaceful refuge, a place of calm and serenity.
In a Sentence: Escaping the city’s chaos, I found solace in the tranquil sanctuary of the shore.

10. Seashells are Nature’s Jewels

Meaning: This metaphor celebrates seashells as natural treasures, precious and beautiful.
In a Sentence: As we walked, we collected seashells, each a unique jewel bestowed by nature.

11. Sunlight is a Warm Embrace

Meaning: The warmth and comfort of sunlight are likened to a nurturing, comforting embrace.
In a Sentence: The morning sunlight wrapped around me like a warm embrace, chasing away the chill.

12. The Beach is a Salty Playground

Meaning: This metaphor describes the beach as a place of fun and adventure, marked by the characteristic saltiness of the sea.
In a Sentence: Children’s laughter rang through the air as they played in the beach’s salty playground.

13. Waves are Rhythmic Lullabies

Meaning: The consistent, soothing sound of waves is compared to a lullaby, calming and gentle.
In a Sentence: At night, the waves sang rhythmic lullabies, lulling the beach into a peaceful slumber.

14. Footprints are Fleeting Memories

Meaning: This metaphor sees footprints as temporary reminders of moments and experiences, soon to be washed away.
In a Sentence: Our footprints in the sand were fleeting memories, soon to be erased by the tides.

15. Seagulls are Ocean’s Sentinels

Meaning: Likening seagulls to guards, this metaphor emphasizes their constant presence and watchful nature over the ocean.
In a Sentence: Circling above, the seagulls acted as the ocean’s sentinels, overseeing their watery realm.

16. Sand Dunes are Nature’s Sculptures

Meaning: This metaphor appreciates sand dunes as natural, ever-changing sculptures shaped by wind and time.
In a Sentence: The sand dunes, shaped by the whims of nature, stood like ancient sculptures along the beach.

17. The Beach is a Timeless Escape

Meaning: The beach is portrayed as a place outside the ordinary flow of time, offering a timeless refuge.
In a Sentence: Every visit to the beach felt like a timeless escape, a break from the relentless march of time.

18. Sunsets are Fiery Masterpieces

Meaning: This metaphor describes sunsets as spectacular, colorful displays, akin to masterful artworks.
In a Sentence: Each evening, the sky lit up with fiery masterpieces, as the sun set in a blaze of glory.

19. Seaweed is an Underwater Forest

Meaning: Seaweed is compared to a forest, highlighting its role as a habitat and its lush, dense growth underwater.
In a Sentence: Beneath the waves, the seaweed swayed like an underwater forest, teeming with marine life.

20. The Shoreline is a Sandy Border

Meaning: This metaphor sees the shoreline as a boundary, a natural divider between land and sea.
In a Sentence: Walking along, I traced the sandy border of the shoreline, where earth meets ocean.

21. Beach Chairs are Relaxation Stations

Meaning: Beach chairs are viewed as focal points for relaxation and comfort on the beach.
In a Sentence: We settled into our beach chairs, our relaxation stations amidst the sounds of the sea.

22. Seashores are Earth’s Edges

Meaning: This metaphor imagines the seashore as the edge of the world, where the land ends and the sea begins.
In a Sentence: Standing on the seashore, I felt like I was at the very edge of the Earth, gazing into infinity.

23. Beach Umbrellas are Colorful Canopies

Meaning: Beach umbrellas are depicted as vibrant, protective covers, providing shade and color.
In a Sentence: The beach was dotted with colorful canopies, as beach umbrellas swayed in the gentle breeze.

24. Surfing is Riding Liquid Mountains

Meaning: This metaphor captures the thrill and challenge of surfing, likening waves to moving mountains.
In a Sentence: As he surfed, it was like watching someone skillfully ride liquid mountains, mastering the ocean’s rhythm.

25. Beach Towels are Sandy Blankets

Meaning: Beach towels are seen as cozy, comforting blankets spread over the sandy surface.
In a Sentence: We spread our beach towels, creating sandy blankets for a day of seaside relaxation.

26. Tides are the Ocean’s Breath

Meaning: The coming and going of tides are compared to the rhythmic breathing of the ocean, a sign of its life and energy.
In a Sentence: The tides ebbed and flowed like the ocean’s breath, a constant reminder of the sea’s living presence.

27. The Beach is a Salty Embrace

Meaning: This metaphor describes the beach experience as an embrace, filled with the distinctive saltiness of the sea.
In a Sentence: Every time I visited, the beach welcomed me with a salty embrace, enveloping me in its unique charm.

28. Shorebirds are Coastal Ballerinas

Meaning: Shorebirds are likened to graceful dancers, moving elegantly along the coastal landscape.
In a Sentence: The shorebirds, like coastal ballerinas, twirled and dipped along the water’s edge, a delicate dance against the backdrop of the sea.

29. Sandpipers are Quicksilver Dancers

Meaning: This metaphor highlights the swift, fluid movements of sandpipers on the beach, reminiscent of quicksilver.
In a Sentence: The sandpipers scurried across the shore, quicksilver dancers in the fleeting sunlight.

30. The Beach is a Haven of Serenity

Meaning: The beach is portrayed as a peaceful, serene retreat, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
In a Sentence: As I sat on the soft sand, the beach enveloped me in a haven of serenity, far from the world’s worries.

Here are 10 quiz questions based on the metaphors for the beach discussed in the article:

Quiz 1: match the metaphor to its meaning.

“The Beach is a Golden Ribbon” a) A peaceful retreat b) A precious, beautiful strip c) A lively space for natural elements
“Waves are Whispering Secrets” a) Soothing sound of waves b) Waves carrying hidden messages c) The beach as a lively place
“Seagulls are Ocean’s Sentinels” a) Seagulls as graceful dancers b) Seagulls as watchful guardians c) Seagulls as playful creatures
“Sandcastles are Dreams in the Sand” a) Sandcastles as natural sculptures b) Sandcastles as manifestations of dreams c) Sandcastles as playful elements
“The Shore is Nature’s Dance Floor” a) The shore as a tranquil place b) The shore as a boundary c) The shore as a dynamic space

Quiz 2: True or False

True or False: “The Ocean is a Vast, Blue Mirror” implies that the ocean reflects the sky and surrounding beauty.
True or False: “Beachcombing is a Treasure Hunt” suggests that finding shells on the beach is like searching for lost treasure.
True or False: “Footprints are Fleeting Memories” means that footprints in the sand last forever.
True or False: “Surfing is Riding Liquid Mountains” refers to the challenging and thrilling nature of surfing.
True or False: “Seashores are Earth’s Edges” implies that the seashore is the central part of the earth.

Quiz 3: Fill in the Blanks

“Sunlight is a __________ Embrace.”
“Seaweed is an __________ Forest.”
“The beach is a __________ Playground.”
“Sandpipers are __________ Dancers.”
“Beach Towels are Sandy __________.”

Quiz 4: Identify the Metaphor

What metaphor describes the shoreline as a natural divider between land and sea?
Which metaphor suggests that beach umbrellas provide shade and color?
What metaphor is used to describe the beach as a place outside the ordinary flow of time?
Which metaphor likens the coming and going of tides to the ocean’s breathing?
What metaphor portrays shorebirds as graceful dancers along the coastal landscape?

These quizzes are a fun way to engage with the metaphors and deepen understanding of their meanings and applications.

Metaphors for the beach are not just poetic expressions; they are gateways to a deeper understanding and appreciation of this magical place. Each metaphor we explored offers a unique way to see and experience the beach, elevating it from a mere physical location to a landscape rich with emotion, beauty, and wonder.

Whether it’s the rhythmic lullabies of the waves, the treasure hunt of beachcombing, or the tranquil sanctuary of the shore, these metaphors invite us to see the beach through a lens of imagination and beauty.

About the author

Dr. Julia Rossi

Dr. Julia Rossi , a luminary in the field of linguistics, earned her Ph.D. with a groundbreaking thesis that delved into the cultural and historical dimensions of idioms, metaphors, and similes. Her work, spanning decades, has brought to light the dynamic nature of idiomatic expressions, illustrating how they serve as cultural artifacts, revealing the collective consciousness of a society. Rossi’s publications, widely acclaimed in academic circles, have not only expanded our understanding of idioms but have also paved the way for a more nuanced appreciation of cross-cultural communication.

Word Of The Day

Ephemeral (adjective) :

Lasting for a very short time; short-lived; transitory.
Existing only briefly; temporary; fleeting.

Example sentence: “The beauty of the cherry blossoms is ephemeral, lasting only a few weeks each spring.”

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17 Beach Metaphors and Similes that Pop!

My favorite beach metaphors include:

It’s a big bathtub.
It’s a golden blanket.
It’s my home.

Some good beach similes include:

It’s like the local water cooler.
It’s like walking on hot coals.
It’s like a dump yard.

Below is the full list, with explanations for each metaphor and simile.

Metaphors for the Beach

1. the sand is a golden blanket.

If you look at the shining golden sand on a sunny beach, you can imagine that it’s a nice smooth blanket laid out as far as you can see. It’s there beckoning you to go and lie on it to soak up the warm sunshine.

For example, you might say to your friends: “The sand is a golden blanket waiting for us to sunbathe!”

2. The Beach is a Wonderland

A ‘wonderland’ is a magical place. It’s usually a place full of happiness and playfulness. So, you can say that a beach is a wonderland to refer to the idea that the beach is your version of a magical place where you’re happy and can run around playing.

For example, you might say: “I don’t want to go to the amusement park. I just need the beach because it’s my wonderland!”

3. The Beach is a Golden Anthill

Imagine if you’re on a plane looking down at a beach on a warm summer day. It might be crowded with a ton of people. From up in the air, all the people down on the beach might look like ants swarming around on a golden anthill. Imagine what aliens must think of us when they look down on us all lying around on the beach doing nothing!

4. The Beach is a Big Bathtub

People on a camping trip often go for a swim in the beach to have a wash. It’s clearly not as good as a clean, warm, fresh-water bath. But it’s enough to wash off the sweat and make you feel fresh.

You could even extend this metaphor to the phrase ‘the world’s biggest bathtub’ to emphasize the sheer size of the beach.

An example might be: “You’re dirty. Go for a swim in the ocean and take some soap, it’s nature’s bathtub!”

5. The Beach is my Therapy

Going out for a day on the beach can be great for your mental health. It can help you relax, refresh and recuperate. It could be ‘as good as’ therapy (in simile form). Instead of talking to a therapist about your problems, you might feel the thing that will help you feel more positive is to simply go to the beach.

So, someone might say to you: “You’re looking sad, do you need to get some help?” And you would reply: “I don’t need therapy. The beach is my therapist.”

6. The Beach is my Holiday

Instead of taking a holiday trip during your summer break from work, you might decide to stay at home for the summer. If you live by the beach, this sounds like a great idea. Instead of going on the trip, you choose to go to the beach every day instead!

So, you could say: “I’m not going to pay to go on a holiday this year. The beach is my holiday … I’m going to spend all day every day on the sand.”

7. The Beach is my Church

If you feel like you’re spiritually refreshed by spending time at the beach, you could call it your ‘church’. Maybe you find spirituality in the connection to nature that you get sitting by the beach and watching the tides come in and out. Or, maybe your community meets with you down by the beach and it’s through community where you get a spiritual connection.

8. The Beach is my Home

If you feel happiest and most comfortable by the beach, you could call it your home. It’s not literally your house, but it feels like the place where you belong.

If you usually live by the beach but have left the seaside for some time, you might say: “this trip was lovely, but the beach is my home and I can’t wait to get back there.”

Similes for the Beach

9. the beach is like a water cooler.

The water cooler is the place where people in an office gather to chat and gossip. So, to call the beach a water cooler is to say that it’s a social location where you meet up with friends to chat.

This might be a pretty common thing for young adults. They might all meet up at 5pm on the sand, for example, to hang out, light a fire and chat about the things that happened with their days.

10. The Beach is like an Oven

On hot days, sometimes the beach can be just too hot. The golden sand bounces sun rays up at you, burning your skin. In the middle of the day, the sand can feel searing hot underfoot. And sometimes you really need an umbrella to provide you with some shade.

With all this heat, you could talk about the beach as if it’s a super hot cooker. You could call it an oven or call the hot sand underfoot a grill.

For example, you might say: “This beach is an oven today. I think I’d better go for a swim to cool down.”

11. The Beach is like a Dump Yard

This negative simile highlights what happens when humans litter. You might walk down to a beach to see the entire beach full of litter that has been washed up onto the shore, which reminds you of walking into a dump yard.

For example, an environmentalist might arrive at the beach with cleaning equipment and say: “Oh no, this beach is a dump yard. It’s so sad, and it will take so long to clean up.”

12. Like Bringing Sand to the Beach

This beach idiom works as a simile.

The idea behind the idiom is that bringing sand to the beach doesn’t make sense. There is a lot of sand at the beach already! So, we can say it is “unnecessary” or “redundant”.

We would use this phrase when talking about anything that seems redundant. For example, bringing a plate of food to a restaurant is silly because there’s a lot of food at the restaurant already.

So you might say: “Don’t bring food to the restaurant. It’s like bringing sand to a beach!”

Other Beach Related Metaphors and Similes

13. i’m drawing a line in the sand.

When people say they are drawing a line in the sand, they mean that they are setting clear rules and boundaries people cannot cross.

It doesn’t literally mean you’re drawing a line in the sand. Rather, it means you’re setting a rule so people stop taking advantage of you.

For example, you might say “I have cooked every night this week. It’s not fair. I refuse to cook dinner for you tomorrow night. I’m drawing a line in the sand.”

14. I’m all at Sea

Someone who is ‘all at sea’ is a person who is lost and confused. We will use it as a metaphor to refer to any situation in which we’re confused.

It relates to the idea that someone is stuck in a boat and can’t see the shoreline anywhere. So, they don’t know where to paddle. All they see around them is ocean, so they’re ‘all at sea’.

An example of when you might use this idiom as a metaphor is when you’re trying to find your way around a new city but you’re lost. You might phone your friend for help, saying: “I can’t find where I’m going. I’m all at sea.”

15. I’m Dipping my Toes in the Water

To dip your toes in the water means that you’re trying something out first before you decide whether you like it or not. You aren’t going to dive head-first into the ocean. You’re going to just put one toe in to see if it’s warm enough for you to swim.

Metaphorically, you might use this phrase at a restaurant. You could say: “I like the look of this wine but I want to dip my toe in the water first. Can I have a taster before choosing which glass I will buy?”

16. I’m Swimming Against the Tide

To be swimming against the tide means to do something different to everyone else. A tide on the beach drags everything in one direction. So if you’re swimming against it, you’re going in a different direction to everything around you.

Metaphorically, you can say you’re “swimming against the tide” if you’re doing something in disagreement to everyone else. For example, if all your friends are going to college but you’re taking a gap year, you’re swimming against the tide.

17. That’s a Drop in the Ocean

Something that is a drop in the ocean is a small and insignificant thing. Imagine adding one drop of water to the ocean. It means virtually nothing given just how much water is in the ocean overall. You’re not having any effect on the ocean.

So, metaphorically you’d use this phrase to refer to anything that seems insignificant. You could talk about how much money you need to save to buy a house. If you add $10 to your savings but your savings goal is $100,000, you’re adding a sum of money that seems entirely insignificant. You’d say: “That $10 is a drop in the ocean compared to how much money I need.

Writing Prompt: Beach Metaphors

By Callie Feyen 28 Comments

Writing Your Beach Metaphor

Suzy Lee’s Wave is a beautiful blue, white, and black wordless story that shows the wonders and treasures found on the oceanfront on a summer day. When I taught 8th grade, I used Wave as a way to study and play with metaphor. As my almost-freshmen made their way through their last days of grammar school, I held the picture book up and said, “Story time,” and they grinned nostalgically. (Let’s continue to have story time in middle and high school, don’t you agree?)

They enjoyed the delightful story, giggling and sighing at the little girl whose mother introduces her to the vastness of the beach and the ocean and then takes a few steps back, out of the scene, so it is just the girl and the ocean. “How is this like what will happen on the first day of high school?” I asked, and the room got quiet, and a seriousness fell like a kite that couldn’t find any wind to fly. “You’re not totally on your own,” I told them, “and neither is the little girl. The mama’s still there, but she’s letting the girl experience this new world for herself.”

And so they watched, as I took them, carefully, through the story, asking questions about the sea and the beach and the seashells. What could they all represent in regard to this next phase of their lives as students?

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What’s a Metaphor?

A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two things that aren’t the same but do have something in common. Metaphor differs from simile, where two things are compared directly using like or as , because it’s indirect and simply states that one thing is another thing.

Metaphor example

From one of my former students: “The clam takes a rock and pushes down on it for years. As hard it can, it pushes on an ugly, single, worthless rock. The clam itself is ugly too, but once the clam feels the rock is ready, it opens the rock up to the world. It reveals a beautiful, coveted pearl that the world would love to have. That’s what high school is. It matures the smallest rock by putting tons of pressure on it so it becomes so beautiful it’s ready for the world to see.”

Simile example

From another former student: “High school is like the waves. It might smack us down. It might overwhelm us. But it will leave us with treasure if we care to look.”

First, how about some art work? Make a beach metaphor with art supplies you have on hand. Blue crayons, computer paper, and pencils, or maybe you have some glitter that your children don’t know about. Then write your metaphor. This can be a poem or a fictional or non-fictional scene.

Maybe we’re not heading off to high school, but maybe we are starting a new phase of life. I’m two years into my forties, and so far they feel like I’m in a second adolescence. I’m trying on the word “author” for the first time and seeing how it fits (and what other names I’ve given myself that feel too restrictive or small now). My husband and I are a few months away from celebrating twenty years of marriage. There are lots of beach metaphors I could create.

Or perhaps you want to go back to high school. I’m sure there are a lot of treasures to be found, even if you have to wade into deeper water. Like I’ve told my students: Don’t be afraid. Have a good time digging around in the sand, figuring out how to body surf the waves and turning over seashells in your hand. We can’t wait to see what you will find.

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Featured poem.

Thanks to everyone who participated in our recent poetry prompt . Here’s one from Rick Maxson we enjoyed:

some night in the deep country

where fireflies dance with the stars over black water

let them open the book of silence for you

—Rick Maxson

Photo by Pacheco Creative Commons, via Flickr. Post by Callie Feyen , author of The Teacher Diaries: Romeo and Juliet.

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About callie feyen.

Callie Feyen likes Converse tennis shoes and colorful high heels, reading the poetry of Gerard Manley Hopkins, and the Twilight series. Her favorite outfit has always been a well-worn pair of jeans and a white T-shirt, but she wants hoop skirts with loads of tulle to come back into style. Her favorite line from literature comes from Sharon Creech’s Absolutely Normal Chaos: “I don’t know who I am yet. I’m still waiting to find out.” Feyen has served as the At-Risk Literacy Specialist in the Ypsilanti Public Schools and is the author of Twirl: my life with stories, writing & clothes and The Teacher Diaries: Romeo and Juliet.

Donna Falcone says

July 30, 2018 at 12:18 pm

Oh Callie… what a beautiful way to honor your students, and this difficult transition that is so often hard to talk about. I love metaphor…what a fun prompt! I am definitely going to chew on this and hope to come back with something to contribute. Can’t wait to see what comes out here on the page. 🙂

Callie Feyen says

August 1, 2018 at 10:09 am

Thank you, Donna. I love metaphor, too. And here’s a behind-the-scenes comment for you: this post helped me write my most recent post on my blog about L.L. Barkat’s new book, The Golden Dress. 🙂 Looking forward to reading what you come up with!

August 1, 2018 at 10:59 am

🙂 Ooooo that’s interesting. I’m going back to read it now!

I just put my poem down below, and on my blog. 😉 Thanks. Great prompt!

Richard Maxson says

July 30, 2018 at 3:46 pm

Callie, thanks for featuring my short poem.

For this prompt Here’s one I posted a long time ago for a prompt. I wrote this for my wife on our 8th wedding anniversary.

Slipper ― For Carol Gabrielle

Watching your feet traipse the shoreline sand that forms itself for a moment like a slipper, disappearing in the ocean’s wet arc following you, I know what happens next, the water deepens around us as we walk, our ankles draped in the last wave’s wet lace, each step now more a memory beyond the force of tides than something we do to make our way in occult and fleeting shoes, cobbled from a thousand years―you and I into the brackish air, into the crush of shells.

Shannon Mayhew says

August 1, 2018 at 9:22 am

This is so lovely, Rick.

August 1, 2018 at 10:11 am

You are welcome, Richard!

This poem is beautiful, and rich in metaphor. What a lovely gift for your wife. Thank you for sharing it with us.

July 31, 2018 at 12:50 pm

My girl is a sea sprite. I’m standing in the surf– frothy waves shimmer like liquid quartz and jade, churning circles around my shins. And she is joy itself, in the form of a child. She laughs into the breaking waves, falling into them and allowing them to receive her, and they push back, holding her up and offering their own sudsy celebration. She looks back at me after each leap, eager to share her bliss as it pours from its secret infinite source. Now she splashes towards me and gifts me with a kiss, squishy and cold on my salty lips, before she plunges back into her element. My feet sink into the silky sea floor and I am held in the most vibrant of places, called now, called Home.

August 1, 2018 at 10:13 am

Reading this, I am imagining the mother in Suzy Lee’s Wave. I think that, even though she is not in the picture for most of the book, she is watching her girl play, and eventually, calling her mama to come play, too. You’ve captured a beautiful moment, Shannon. Thank you.

August 7, 2018 at 7:57 am

Thank you, Callie. I will need to check out Wave!

August 6, 2018 at 11:00 pm

Oh Shannon, “Nixie” is a poem I can read repeatedly, enjoying the sounds and images:) The accompanying art on your site is marvelous!

August 7, 2018 at 7:56 am

Thank you, Katie! I love your list of beach words. They definitely evoke for me many of the things that make my family’s summer trips to the beach special. Hope to see what you do with this list!

August 7, 2018 at 9:18 am

Joy in the form of a child. Oh, that is beautiful! I enjoyed your poem!

August 8, 2018 at 10:07 am

Thank you, Donna! I’m so happy you enjoyed it. 🙂

Lori DiGisi says

July 31, 2018 at 3:10 pm

Misty breeze hits your face, filling your spirit with just enough chill to know that you are alive. In the morning, the beach air can be shocking, waking all your senses. You pull your sweatshirt close around you, but your body is awake now, filled with the cool, fresh air and the sounds of waves crashing on the shore. This cold introduction to the day is when you wake up from a situation you’ve been struggling with and finally know what you have to do. It moves you to act, to be, to know that action is key to living a fully human life.

L.L. Barkat says

July 31, 2018 at 8:43 pm

I like the idea of “just enough chill” and the internal rhyme between “filling” and “chill” and then the echo of their end sounds in “pull”—there’s the beginning of an ocean rhythm and sense there, right inside the word-sounds. 🙂

August 1, 2018 at 10:15 am

I agree! Also, I like the use of the second person here. Reading it, I feel it is happening to me (and now I want to walk alongside the ocean).

Kerry Bernier says

July 31, 2018 at 5:20 pm

Can you tell me the author of the book Wave? I looked it up and I am not finding a match to your description. Thanks, Kerry Bernier

July 31, 2018 at 8:37 pm

Here’s the book, Kerry. 🙂

https://www.amazon.com/Wave-Suzy-Lee/dp/081185924X/ref=as_li_ss_tl?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1532545341&sr=1-1&keywords=suzy+lee+wave&dpID=41t%252B6hKC1JL&preST=_SX218_BO1,204,203,200_QL40_&dpSrc=srch&linkCode=sl1&tag=tweetpoetr-20&linkId=0036b22663022b1b0e83c6807c97c5fd&language=en_US

August 1, 2018 at 10:50 am

Because metaphors come from times gone by that we have known in our bones, even if we can’t remember how.

My poem, barefooted, is on my blog with an original image painted as part of the prompt. Here it is without the image. http://www.donnazfalcone.com/poetry/barefooted

It is good To have gone to the beach When you were small And, standing barefooted At the edge of the sea, Closed your eyes Going all off kilter when foaming swirls Washed away the earth beneath your feet – So that some day When the rug is pulled out You’ll remember, In a whisper or a rush, That you survived this once before, And you will, By God, Do it again.

August 6, 2018 at 11:03 pm

Donna, I sure needed to read this today. Thank you for sharing🙂

August 7, 2018 at 7:28 am

🙂 I’m glad my poem had something for you, Katie. Thanks!

August 3, 2018 at 10:39 am

Thank-you!!!

August 5, 2018 at 9:23 am

We are just back from the beach. While there during rainy moments I made a list of things around us:

thunder lightning seagulls paddle board kayaks watermelon cantaloupe clouds rain sea breeze flip flops palm trees wake sand vines grass sea oats tea water juice towels swimsuits paddles siblings bread oatmeal niece nephew siblings waves wind ocean beach sound waterway bridge boats tubes dock pier porch rockers deck sunshine blue sky overcast bicycles boogie boards outdoor shower garden hose life vests

I’m looking forward to pulling some items out of this to form a vacation/beach poem:)

August 7, 2018 at 9:20 am

It was fun to read your list… so sensory!!! I could almost smell cantaloupe!

I also got a kick out of how the right edges of the words are all wavey if you just look at the shape! 🙂

August 7, 2018 at 4:01 pm

Thank you, Donna:) I cannot claim to have made “waves” intentionally;)

Here are a few poems ( first two cinquains, second two haiku) I put together from the list:

pages turning slowly bookmark skipping along sun traverses a blue-gray sky savor

rain comes pouring straight down wets white sand, wets green grass before we know it, it will pass shower

Right by my elbow iced tea glass rapidly sweats warming, pages turn

chair faced into wind I comfortably lean back breeze, book, beverage

August 8, 2018 at 10:14 am

I especially love these last two haiku, Katie. There’s nothing like the feeling of contentment I get from sitting on the beach, reading, with a cool drink nearby. You’ve captured this feeling vividly!

August 7, 2018 at 4:35 pm

Here is another poem from my beach list:

Rain, Ride, Glide

Thunder woke the neighborhood shook the house right where it stood across the channel, light show played

Showers brought the heat way down lifted our faces, removed all frowns open garage, pull out bikes

Clouds threatened all around yet there was time to ride to town flip the flops off, boat shoes on

Slide the kayaks, grab the paddles hop in, push off, you’re in the saddle stroke, stroke current is strong

Gaze skyward at blue above filled with avian treasure trove life vests on, sprint and glide.

Not really satisfied with this even after some suggestions and edits – ideas anyone?

[…] to everyone who participated in our recent poetry prompt. Here’s one from Shannon Mayhew we […]

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25 Similes for the Beach

When we think of the beach, our minds often conjure up images of sun, sand, and surf. But have you ever thought about describing the beach using similes?

Similes are a wonderful way to add depth and vividness to your descriptions, painting a more detailed picture in the reader’s mind. In this article, we will explore the beauty of the beach through a series of unique and engaging similes that will make you see this natural wonder in a whole new light.

Similes for the Beach

1. the sand was as white as snow..

Meaning: This simile compares the color of the sand to that of snow.

In a Sentence: The beach’s pristine shoreline stretched out before us, the sand as white as snow under the scorching sun.

2. The waves crashed against the shore like thunder.

Meaning: This simile compares the sound of the waves to that of thunder.

In a Sentence: As we strolled along the beach, the relentless waves crashed against the shore like thunder, a powerful and awe-inspiring symphony of nature.

3. The ocean stretched out before us like a vast blue desert.

Meaning: This simile compares the expanse of the ocean to that of a desert.

In a Sentence: Standing at the water’s edge, we gazed out at the endless ocean that stretched out before us like a vast blue desert, its horizon disappearing into the distance.

4. The water was as clear as crystal.

Meaning: This simile compares the clarity of the water to that of crystal.

In a Sentence: We couldn’t resist dipping our toes into the inviting water, which was as clear as crystal, allowing us to see the colorful marine life beneath the surface.

5. The sun blazed down on us like a fiery furnace.

Meaning: This simile compares the intensity of the sun’s heat to that of a furnace.

In a Sentence: With the sun high in the sky, its rays blazed down on us like a fiery furnace, making the beach a paradise for sunseekers.

6. The breeze was as refreshing as a cold glass of water on a hot summer day.

Meaning: This simile compares the feeling of the breeze to that of a refreshing drink.

In a Sentence: A gentle breeze swept in from the sea, caressing our skin and providing relief from the heat, as refreshing as a cold glass of water on a hot summer day.

7. The sand was as soft as a pillow.

Meaning: This simile compares the texture of the sand to that of a pillow.

In a Sentence: As we settled down on the beach towels, we found the sand beneath us to be as soft as a pillow, a perfect spot for an afternoon nap.

8. The seagulls were as graceful as dancers.

Meaning: This simile compares the movement of the seagulls to that of dancers.

In a Sentence: The seagulls soared gracefully through the sky, their wings outstretched like ballet dancers in a mesmerizing performance.

9. The beach was as bustling as a city.

Meaning: This simile compares the activity on the beach to that of a busy city.

In a Sentence: The beachfront was bustling with activity, as families played in the sand, beachgoers enjoyed various water sports, and vendors peddled their wares, resembling a lively cityscape.

10. The shells on the beach were as colorful as a rainbow.

Meaning: This simile compares the variety of colors on the shells to that of a rainbow.

In a Sentence: We collected shells along the shoreline, marveling at their vibrant hues that were as colorful as a rainbow after a summer rain.

11. The water was as warm as a bath.

Meaning: This simile compares the temperature of the water to that of a warm bath.

In a Sentence: Diving into the ocean, we were pleasantly surprised to find the water as warm as a bath, a soothing embrace on a cool morning.

12. The sand was as hot as an oven.

Meaning: This simile compares the temperature of the sand to that of an oven.

In a Sentence: Carefully navigating the scorching sand, it felt as if we were walking on an oven, our feet craving the coolness of the shoreline.

13. The sand was as fine as sugar.

Meaning: This simile compares the texture of the sand to that of sugar.

In a Sentence: With each step, the sand was as fine as sugar, slipping through our toes like powdered sweetness.

14. The waves were as playful as puppies.

Meaning: This simile compares the movement of the waves to that of playful puppies.

In a Sentence: Children giggled and played in the shallow surf, the waves frolicking around them like playful puppies eager for fun.

15. The horizon was as endless as the sky.

Meaning: This simile compares the expanse of the horizon to that of the sky.

In a Sentence: Staring out at the horizon, it seemed as though it stretched on forever, as endless as the sky itself.

16. The sunset was as beautiful as a painting.

Meaning: This simile compares the beauty of the sunset to that of a painting.

In a Sentence: As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky was set ablaze with hues of orange and pink, creating a scene as beautiful as a painting.

17. The water was as cold as ice.

Meaning: This simile compares the temperature of the water to that of ice.

In a Sentence: Taking a dip in the early morning, we were taken aback by the water’s chill, feeling as if we were plunging into icy depths.

18. The sand castles were as delicate as porcelain.

Meaning: This simile compares the fragility of sand castles to that of porcelain.

In a Sentence: Children built intricate sand castles, their delicate structures resembling porcelain artistry.

19. The beach was as crowded as a stadium.

Meaning: This simile compares the number of people on the beach to that of a crowded stadium.

In a Sentence: On a sunny weekend, the beach was as crowded as a stadium during a major sporting event, with beachgoers vying for prime spots in the sun.

20. The water was as rough as a storm.

Meaning: This simile compares the choppiness of the water to that of a storm.

In a Sentence: With strong winds whipping across the sea, the water became as rough as a storm, challenging even the most seasoned surfers.

21. The sand was as hot as a stovetop.

Meaning: This simile compares the temperature of the sand to that of a stovetop.

In a Sentence: As we hurriedly made our way to the water’s edge, the sand beneath our feet felt as hot as a stovetop, making us quicken our pace.

22. The waves were as soothing as a lullaby.

Meaning: This simile compares the sound of the waves to that of a lullaby.

In a Sentence: As we lay on our beach towels, the gentle lapping of the waves against the shore acted as a soothing lullaby, lulling us into a state of relaxation.

23. The beach was as peaceful as a forest.

Meaning: This simile compares the tranquility of the beach to that of a forest.

In a Sentence: In the early morning, before the crowds arrived, the beach was as peaceful as a forest, with only the rustling of palm fronds in the breeze.

24. The water was as blue as a sapphire.

Meaning: This simile compares the color of the water to that of a sapphire.

In a Sentence: Looking out at the sea, we marveled at the water’s deep blue hue, as mesmerizing and vibrant as a sapphire gemstone.

25. The sand was as golden as the sun.

Meaning: This simile compares the color of the sand to that of the sun.

In a Sentence: As the day drew to a close, the sand beneath our feet took on a golden hue, mirroring the setting sun, a perfect ending to our day at the beach.

The beach is a place of wonder and beauty, and describing it through similes adds a layer of richness to our appreciation of this natural paradise. Whether it’s the softness of the sand, the sound of the waves, or the colors of the shells, similes help us capture the essence of the beach in words.

25 similes for mean, 25 similes for kids.

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Using Figurative Language in your Writing

Published: 23 jul 2021 tagged: allusion figurative language high schoolers hyperbole idiom implied metaphor language literacy metaphor onomatopoeia personification primary schoolers pun simile tips vocabulary writing.

When we are reading a book with a story or poetry, it’s pretty likely that we will find some passages with figurative language, adding an extra layer of meaning to what we are reading. But what is figurative language? How to use appropriately?

Figurative language is a phrasing technique that goes beyond the literal meaning of the used words towards a better demonstration of emotions, mood and relevance of an action, character or event. In order to make it work, we can use a wide array of techniques from figurative language, such as:

Simile: this happens when someone or something is compared to a seemingly unrelated thing. For example, when you write “they walked as elegant as a cat.”
Metaphor: you can write a metaphor when not comparing such as a Simile does, but connects the seemingly unrelated thing as a predicative, such as when writing “those kids are such busy bees.”
Implied metaphor: similar to the metaphor, the implied metaphor uses elements that connect to a metaphor, but without being so explicit. A use of implied metaphor could be “I can’t stand this guy! He’s quacking his opinions nonstop!”
Personification: instead of putting qualities or comparisons onto people, we use personification to input human traits to animals, natural forces or inanimate objects. A good example is “the Sun is smiling to me on this warm day.”
Hyperbole: this one is very common, because everyone likes to make exaggerated statements, such as “I’m so busy today, I have a million tasks to finish until the end of the day!”
Allusion: that happens when you refer to another person, place, text, event or artwork in order to compare one element to the other. A use of allusion could be “I’m very proud of this, that’s my Monalisa of science projects!”
Idiom: some expressions are figurative because they represent an action or event, such as when saying “hey, my friend, hold your horses, soon we’ll get there.”
Pun: a play of words with a humorous meaning is a pun. A good example, many times explored, is “Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana.”
Onomatopoeia: though with such a complicated name, an onomatopoeia is very common and very explored when we are learning how to speak, trying to simulate the sounds we hear. Words like “buzz”, “whoof”, “tick-tock”, “ding-dong” and others are great examples.

Now that you know about these nine techniques for figurative language, it’s important for you to know that you shouldn’t use them all the time, for any reason. Our tips for the appropriate use of figurative language are:

Know why you're utilising figurative language at all times. Why don't you just say "our love is dead" instead of "I don't love you anymore?" Is the expression in your character's mouth accurate? Is it appropriate for your tone and style? If it isn't, then don't use it.
Carefully select your figures of speech. Yes, you can write, "her beauty hit me in the eye like a squirt of grapefruit juice," but how would such a simile add to your story or expand on its meaning? If you have a character with major communication challenges, it's a good idea to include it; otherwise, avoid it.
Use figurative language only when necessary. A text densely packed with similes and metaphors can be difficult to decipher. Choose figures of speech that will help you achieve your goal (boosting mood, meaning, or subject), but don't use them just because you can.
Make sure that any figurative language you use in speech is appropriate for that character. Characters that speak plainly should not have flowery language in their mouths.

Watch this fun video which also explains about some of these figurative language techniques:

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Dover Beach

by Matthew Arnold

The sea is calm tonight. The tide is full, the moon lies fair Upon the straits; on the French coast the light Gleams and is gone; the cliffs of England stand, Glimmering and vast, out in the tranquil bay. Come to the window, sweet is the night -air! Only, from the long line of spray Where the sea meets the moon-blanched land, Listen! you hear the grating roar Of pebbles which the waves draw back, and fling, At their return, up the high strand, Begin, and cease, and then again begin, With tremulous cadence slow, and bring The eternal note of sadness in. Sophocles long ago Heard it on the Ægean, and it brought Into his mind the turbid ebb and flow Of human misery; we Find also in the sound a thought, Hearing it by this distant northern sea. The Sea of Faith Was once, too, at the full, and round earth’s shore Lay like the folds of a bright girdle furled. But now I only hear Its melancholy, long, withdrawing roar, Retreating, to the breath Of the night-wind, down the vast edges drear And naked shingles of the world. Ah, love, let us be true To one another! for the world, which seems To lie before us like a land of dreams , So various, so beautiful, so new, Hath really neither joy, nor love, nor light, Nor certitude, nor peace, nor help for pain; And we are here as on a darkling plain Swept with confused alarms of struggle and flight, Where ignorant armies clash by night.

Summary of Dover Beach

Popularity of “Dover Beach”: Matthew Arnold, a famous poet, and critic wrote Dover Beach, a famous dramatic monologue . It was first published in 1867. The poem describes a distinct clash between religion and the modern world. It also illustrates how the beauty of the world is corroded with the loss of faith.
“Dover Beach” Criticism on the World: The poem presents two things: the reality of the new world and loss of faith. The poet argues that the world is no more beautiful as it used to be. At first, standing on the cliffs of Dover Beach, he records his feelings about the tranquil sea. He also calls his love to enjoy this majesty of nature, glimmering lighthouse, famous white cliffs of Dover and the sound of waves, hitting at the seashore. This enchanting scene reminds him of the Greek dramatics, Sophocles and his tragic plays. He states that in the past people had faith in the past, and the world was a good place. But, now it has become hollow without any joy, happiness, and faith. Also, people are unable to differentiate between reality and illusion . So, faith is slipping away. The poem conveys a message that it is only through love people can find the lost faith.
Major themes in “Dover Beach”: Man, the natural world and loss of faith are the major themes in the poem. He laments the loss of faith in the world with resultant cruelty, uncertainty, and violence. Although the world appears as a land of mesmerizing dreams, in reality, humanity is standing on the verge of chaos; perplex, confused and empty from inside. Therefore, he urges his beloved and himself to be true to one another to survive in this land.

Analysis of Literary Devices in “Dover Beach”

literary devices play a pivotal role in shaping a literary piece of work. The writer uses them to bring uniqueness and depth in the simple texts. Mathew Arnold has used some literary devices to bring depth in this poem. The analysis of some of the literary devices used in this poem has been discussed below.

Assonance : Assonance is the repetition of vowel sounds in the same line such as the sound of /e/ and /o/in “Hath really neither joy, nor love, nor light”.
Alliteration : Alliteration is the repetition of consonant sounds in the same line such as the sound of /l/ in “To lie before us like a land of dreams”.
Enjambment : It is defined as a thought or verse that does not come to an end at a line break instead moves over the next line. For example,

“And we are here as on a darkling plain Swept with confused alarms of struggle and flight.”

Allusion : Allusion is a belief and an indirect reference of a person, place, thing or idea of a historical, cultural, political or literary significance. This poem contains allusions as in the second stanza . For example, ‘Sophocles’ refers to the great Greek play writer and in the third stanza “sea of faith” refers to the world of religions.
Pathetic Fallacy : It is a figure of speech in which objects are attributed to human emotions. For example, “Listen! you hear the grating roar, Of pebbles which the waves draw back, and fling” and “eternal note of sadness.” Human beings experience these feelings attributed to pebbles.
Symbolism : Symbolism is using symbols to signify ideas and qualities, giving them symbolic meanings different from literal meanings. Similarly, “sea of faith” symbolizes faith in god and Tide leaving the shore” is the symbol of lost faith.
Simile : It is a figure of speech used to compare something with something else to make the readers understand what it is. For example, the world is compared to the land of dreams in the below lines.

“To one another! for the world, which seems To lie before us like a land of dreams.”

Imagery : Imagery is used to make readers perceive things involving their five senses. Such as, “The tide is full, the moon lies fair”; “Of pebbles which the waves draw back, and fling” and “Where the sea meets the moon-blanched land.”

The analysis shows that this poem, though seems a simple description of the natural beauty, has a deceptive pull to spellbound the reader.

Analysis of Poetic Devices in “Dover Beach”

Poetic and literary devices are the same, but a few are used only in poetry. Here is the analysis of some of the poetic devices used in this poem.

Stanza : A stanza is a poetic form of some lines. There are four stanzas in this poem each varies in length. Stanza 1 has 14 lines, stanza 2 has 6 lines, stanza 3 has 8 lines and the last stanza has 9 lines.
Iambic Pentameter : It is a type of meter having five iambs per line. The poem follows irregular iambic pentameter such as, “Hath re ally nei ther joy , nor love , nor light .”
Rhyme Scheme : There is no specific rhyme scheme in this poem.

Quotes to be Used

The lines stated below can be used when describing any personal experience of catching a mesmerizing sight of the peaceful sea.

“The sea is calm tonight. The tide is full, the moon lies fair Upon the straits; on the French coast the light Gleams and is gone; the cliffs of England stand, Glimmering and vast, out in the tranquil bay.”

On the Beach at Fontana
Mother to Son
She Walks in Beauty
Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star
Stopping By Woods on a Snowy Evening
O Captain! My Captain!
Phenomenal Woman
The Waste Land
A Dream within a Dream
I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud
The New Colossus
We Wear the Mask
The World is Too Much With Us
Dulce et Decorum Est
When I Have Fears That I May Cease to Be
Love’s Philosophy
In Flanders Fields
Little Bo-Peep
A Poison Tree
Pied Beauty
Acquainted with the Night
My Papa’s Waltz
Old Ironsides
When You Are Old
Auguries of Innocence
Those Winter Sundays
Mary Had a Little Lamb
How Do I Love Thee? Let Me Count The Ways
Hush Little Baby, Don’t Say a Word
Nothing Gold Can Stay
Jabberwocky
The Chimney Sweeper
See It Through
The Negro Speaks of Rivers
Baa, Baa, Black Sheep
The Emperor of Ice-Cream
The Highwayman
Success is Counted Sweetest
Lift Every Voice and Sing
The Wreck of the Hesperus
The Walrus and the Carpenter
Lady Lazarus
The Twelve Days of Christmas
The Cremation of Sam McGee
Ballad of Birmingham
I Hear America Singing
Sailing to Byzantium
Of Modern Poetry
Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard
Song of the Open Road
The Battle Hymn of the Republic
Little Miss Muffet
O Me! O Life!
The Albatross
My Life Had Stood – a Loaded Gun
The Snow Man
Loveliest of Trees, the Cherry Now
Blow, Blow, Thou Winter Wind
The Man He Killed
Abou Ben Adhem
Verses upon the Burning of Our House
The Song of Wandering Aengus
The Mother
Frost at Midnight
On First Looking into Chapman’s Homer
The Convergence of the Twain
Sunflower Sutra
Composed upon Westminster Bridge
A Supermarket in California
Concord Hymn
Crossing Brooklyn Ferry
Song: To Celia
Carrion Comfort
Fra Lippo Lippi
Speech: “Is this a dagger which I see before me
The Black-Faced Sheep
The Buried Life

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Elie Wiesel: Figurative Language

Categories: Elie Wiesel Holocaust

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Published: Mar 16, 2024

Words: 467 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

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