Read the following stanza and answer the question:

'Give me a flower delicious as the rose
And stately as the lily in her pride' –
But of what colour?' – 'Rose-red', Love first chose,
Then prayed – 'No, lily – white – or, 'both provide:'

'Give me a flower delicious as the rose _____' Which figure of speech is used in this line ?

Question

Read the following stanza and answer the question:

'Give me a flower delicious as the rose
And stately as the lily in her pride' –
But of what colour?' – 'Rose-red', Love first chose,
Then prayed – 'No, lily – white – or, 'both provide:'

'Give me a flower delicious as the rose _____' Which figure of speech is used in this line ?

Accepted Answer

The line "Give me a flower delicious as the rose" employs the figure of speech known as a simile, which is why Option 4 is the correct answer. A simile is a literary device that makes a comparison between two different things using the words "like" or "as." In this line, the speaker is comparing a flower to a rose using the word "as," which is a clear indication of a simile. This comparison highlights the desired qualities of the flower, emphasizing its deliciousness by likening it to the well-known attributes of a rose.

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

1. **Metaphor**: A metaphor is a figure of speech that makes a direct comparison between two unrelated things without using "like" or "as." It implies that one thing is another, rather than just similar to it. Since the line uses "as" to make the comparison, it is not a metaphor.

2. **Assonance**: Assonance is the repetition of vowel sounds within nearby words. The line does not focus on the repetition of vowel sounds; instead, it centers on a comparison between a flower and a rose. Therefore, assonance is not the figure of speech used here.

3. **Epithet**: An epithet is an adjective or descriptive phrase expressing a quality or characteristic of the person or thing mentioned. The line does not use an epithet to describe the flower or the rose; rather, it uses a simile to compare them. Thus, epithet is not applicable in this context.

In conclusion, the use of "as" in the line clearly indicates a simile, making Option 4 the correct choice. The other options do not fit the description of the figure of speech used in this line.