Question

Use the following sentence to respond to the prompt:

The sharp, spiky branches of the trees scratched my arms like a cat who lost its favorite sleeping spot.

In one paragraph, explain how the language in the sentence creates a figurative meaning.
(4 points)

Answer 1

The language in the sentence creates a figurative meaning by using a simile to compare the sharp, spiky branches of the trees to a cat who lost its favorite sleeping spot. This comparison suggests that the scratches from the branches were not only painful, but also unexpected and undesired, just like a cat who has been displaced from its usual cozy spot. By linking the sensation of the scratches to the experience of a cat losing its comfortable place, the sentence evokes a vivid image in the reader's mind and enhances the understanding of the discomfort and irritation caused by the branches. Through this figurative language, the sentence paints a picture of a painful and frustrating encounter with nature, while also triggering a sense of empathy by relating it to a relatable situation involving animals.