Question

This is a direct comparison of two things, in which they are said to be (in some sense) the same thing.

Answer 1

It sounds like you're describing a central concept in literature and rhetoric known as a "metaphor." A metaphor is a figure of speech that involves a direct comparison between two unlike things, suggesting that they are alike in some significant way. Unlike similes, which use "like" or "as" to make comparisons, metaphors assert that one thing *is* another, thereby inviting deeper interpretation and understanding of both concepts.

For example, saying "Time is a thief" compares the abstract concept of time to a thief, suggesting that time can take away life's moments just as a thief would take possessions. Would you like to explore more about metaphors or any related literary devices?