Please read the following stanza to answer the question:

"The Jamuna's waters rush by so quickly,
The shadows of evening gather so thickly,
Like black birds in the sky...

O! If the storm breaks, what will betide me?
Safe from the lightning where shall I hide me?
Unless Thou succour my footsteps and guide me.
Ram re Ram! I shall die."

"Like black birds" in the above lines in as example of

Question

Please read the following stanza to answer the question:

"The Jamuna's waters rush by so quickly,
The shadows of evening gather so thickly,
Like black birds in the sky...

O! If the storm breaks, what will betide me?
Safe from the lightning where shall I hide me?
Unless Thou succour my footsteps and guide me.
Ram re Ram! I shall die."

"Like black birds" in the above lines in as example of

Accepted Answer

The phrase "Like black birds" in the stanza is an example of a simile. A simile is a figure of speech that directly compares two different things using the words "like" or "as." In this case, the shadows of evening are being compared to black birds using the word "like," which is a clear indication of a simile. This comparison helps to create a vivid image in the reader's mind, emphasizing the darkness and movement of the shadows as they gather.

Now, let's examine why the other options are incorrect:

1. **Metaphor**: A metaphor is a figure of speech that implies a comparison between two unlike things without using "like" or "as." It suggests that one thing is another. Since the phrase "Like black birds" uses "like" to make the comparison, it is not a metaphor.

3. **Hyperbole**: Hyperbole is an exaggerated statement or claim not meant to be taken literally. The phrase "Like black birds" does not involve any exaggeration; it is a straightforward comparison, so it does not qualify as hyperbole.

4. **Pun**: A pun is a form of wordplay that exploits multiple meanings of a term or similar-sounding words for humorous or rhetorical effect. The phrase "Like black birds" does not involve any wordplay or double meanings, so it is not a pun.

In conclusion, the use of "like" in the phrase "Like black birds" clearly indicates that it is a simile, making Option 2 the correct answer.