"
44. The division of the Simile from the Metaphor is by no means
a definite one. Between the one extreme in which the two elements
of the comparison are detailed at full length and the analogy
pointed out, and the other extreme in which the comparison is
implied instead of stated, come intermediate forms, in which the
comparison is partly stated and partly implied. For instance:--"Astonished
at the performances of the English plow, the Hindoos paint it, set
it up, and worship it; thus turning a tool into an idol: linguists
do the same with language." There is an evident advantage in leaving
the reader or hearer to complete the figure. And generally these
intermediate forms are good in proportion as they do this; provided
the mode of completing it be obvious.
45. Passing over much that may be said of like purport upon
Hyperbole, Personification, Apostrophe, &c., let us close our
remarks upon construction by a typical example. The general principle
which has been enunciated is, that other things equal, the force
of all verbal forms and arrangements is great, in proportion as
the time and mental effort they demand from the recipient is small.
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