Explain the concept of metaphor and provide examples from literary works.

The concept of metaphor is a figure of speech that involves making a comparison between two unrelated things, often by stating that one thing is another thing. It is used to create vivid imagery, evoke emotions, and convey complex ideas in a concise and imaginative way.

Here are a few examples of metaphors from literary works:

1. "All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players." - William Shakespeare, As You Like It. In this metaphor, Shakespeare compares the world to a stage and people to actors, suggesting that life is like a play where everyone has a role to play.

2. "Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul." - Emily Dickinson, "Hope is the Thing with Feathers." Here, Dickinson compares hope to a bird with feathers, emphasizing its lightness and ability to uplift the spirit.

3. "Life is a journey that must be traveled no matter how bad the roads and accommodations." - Oliver Goldsmith. This metaphor compares life to a journey, highlighting the idea that life is a continuous process with obstacles and challenges.

4. "Love is a battlefield." - Pat Benatar, "Love is a Battlefield." In this metaphor, love is compared to a battlefield, suggesting that relationships can be intense, filled with conflict and struggle.

5. "Time is a thief." - John Green, The Fault in Our Stars. This metaphor compares time to a thief, implying that time can steal moments and opportunities from us.

These examples demonstrate how metaphors can enhance the reader's understanding and create a deeper connection to the text by using imaginative comparisons.