Today, I’d like to challenge you to write a poem that contains at least one of a different kind of simile – an epic simile. Also known as Homeric similes, these are basically extended similes that develop over multiple lines. Perhaps unsurprisingly, they have mainly been used in epic poems, typically as decorative elements that emphasize the dramatic nature of the subject (see, by way of illustration, this example from Milton’s Paradise Lost). But you could write a complete poem that is just one lengthy, epic simile, relying on the surprising comparison of unlike things to carry the poem across. And if you’re feeling especially cheeky, you could even write a poem in which the epic simile spends lines heroically and dramatically describing something that turns out to be quite prosaic. Whatever you decide to compare, I hope you have fun extending your simile(s) to epic lengths.
An Epic Simile: Love- a choice?
Like a gentle breeze that tiptoes the meadows
and sways the crimson yellow marigold
over the canvas of hues
that spreads like the boundless ocean
whose waves surge and rescind
rhythmically with the kiss of the
gentle breeze that tiptoes the meadows
like a drizzle that impishly teases the marigold
and caresses its tender petals
as it pours its affection
and sways the crimson yellow marigold
–
That’s how your love has permeated my soul,
That’s how your love has become ‘Me’
Love is not a choice; not anymore.
–
©Vandana Bhasin
26.04.2022
Delightful, Vandana! I like the circularity of your poem and its central crescendo from ‘a gentle breeze that tiptoes the meadows’ to waves that surge.
Thanks Kim! Appreciate your words ♥️♥️
Very romantic.
Vandana, this is delightfully lovely.
How tender and romantic, Vandana. I love the last line ‘ Love is not a choice; not anymore,’ and how you repeat the line, ‘Like a gentle breeze that tiptoes the meadows.’ It has such a soft fell to it.
You are welcome.
wow! This is so powerful and wow such evocative imagery! xo
This is so beautiful Vandana. I’m listening to birdsong (it’s early morning here) while reading your lines. Bliss.
Your words are a bliss for me Arti! Thank you for such lovely praise ♥️♥️