Several weeks ago, while wistfully contemplating the last throes of summer, I wrote an indulgent blog. Although I was going to set it aside, it dawned on me that what I had done was demonstrate the concept of metaphor.
Metaphors are convenient tools for writers who don’t want to blatantly expound. By substituting a theme, but clearly letting “deeper meaning” slip through, a writer can convey an idea without hitting the reader over the head.
For example:
In my late season garden, morning glories have overtaken the post where I invited them to spiral skyward. Cucumber stakes are leaning rakishly after a hard-hitting storm. Last year’s dahlias not only survived but have thrived, sending pink spidery pom-poms into the air. Tomatoes continue to grow despite their broken branches.
Impatiens bloom in a riot of color below, pressed up against white daisy mums that have been divided and multiplied. A butterfly bush that I thought was a goner sends violet plumes above the fray.
Basil spikes emit a fresh scent in even the slightest breeze. There’s eggplant and pepper hiding somewhere … coreopsis and cone flowers persist beyond their prime.
So what have
I learned?
1. No matter how
I plan it, life will
take its course.
2. There will always be weeds, so if you can’t remove them, climb over them.
3. Aim for the sky
but if it’s out
of reach, spread
confidently across the ground.
4. Even a late summer flower can attract bees.
5. Don’t be afraid to pick the fruit; you’ve earned it.
6. An independent tendril will out-maneuver an inflexible fence.
7. Sometimes it’s good to have something to lean on.
8. If you don’t grow roses, take time to smell the basil.
9. Late bloomers can be worth the wait.
10. A treasure can be hiding in plain sight.
11. All colors are beautiful.
12. Don’t overlook the worker bees.
13. Plant a lot of seeds; some will sprout.
14. You can’t corral a good idea – or a persistent vine.
15. Sometimes we all have to deal with fertilizer.
16. Water generously but don’t drown the seedlings.
17. Invite butterflies into your world.
18. A lot of good small bugs can turn a big bug into lunch.
19. Not everyone is a gardener; don’t let them fool you.
20. Sing to your flowers; some will like it.
21. Gather strong stones to build a border.
22. Forget labels. The flowers will speak for themselves.
23. An imperfect homegrown vegetable tastes better than a perfect store-bought one.
24. Give a neighbor a perennial and he will return the favor forever.
25. Dead-head often; it will promote growth.
26. A root-bound plant will not thrive.
27. Plants don’t color within the lines.
28. Sun is more appreciated after a rain.
29. Study a dragonfly if it lands on your hand.
30. Dare to dream about next year’s garden.
Tags: gardening, life lessons, metaphor, philosophy, tolerance
Categories: Colorful phrases, Creativity, Reflection, Writing, metaphors