Home > Arts Group > Discussion Board

What are some example figurative language in song lyrics? 

The example I usually use with my students is "Time" by Pink Floyd. This song contains many examples of figurative language such as the metaphor of life as a race. "Dull day" is also an effective example of alliteration that causes the line slow down and take on a monotonous, repetitive tone.

Another great song that is full of allusions is "We Didn't Start the Fire" by Billy Joel. The song is a large repeat of allusions combined with a metaphor comparing the world's problems with a fire.

There are literally millions of examples. For instance, two of Madonna's songs are based almost entirely on a simile (a comparison using like or as) Those are "Like a Virgin" and "Like a Prayer" In her song "Spanish Eyes" there is a great example of metaphor (a comparison not using like or as) "the streets are paved with fear." Perhaps the easiest figurative language to find in song lyrics is the five different types of imagery: Tactile (touch), olfactory (smell), visual (sight), auditory (hearing) and gustatory (taste). These are phrases that directly appeal/engage the five senses. Allusion (alluding to a famous person, place, or event) is another type of figurative language often found in song lyrics. You can use the website below to search for song lyrics to serve as further examples.

to morrol and all of U...

please, give me some analysis about the figurative language in song lyrics time by pink floyd..
because, figurative language in song lyrics is my title in my thesis...

can U give some analysis ...

thanks before for all...