Literal language means exactly what it says, while figurative language uses similes, metaphors, hyperbole, symbolism, and personification to describe something often through comparison with something different.
Think of literal language as something that is straightforward or factual; the dictionary meaning of a word.
This relates to the idea of denotation: the literal or primary meaning of a word, in contrast to the feelings or ideas that the word suggests.
Figurative language is far more interesting. It is imaginative, and conveys not just the facts, but an idea. Figurative meanings encourage us to use our imagination.
This relates to the idea of connotation: an idea or feeling that a word invokes in addition to its literal or primary meaning.
If you remember these two concepts, it will help you to identify the implied meaning in a piece of text.
In the poem we will be reading, it is very important that we are able to make the distinction between literal and figurative language. In this way, we are able to understand what the author's intention beyond that actual words on the page.
Implied meaning is what is suggested but not directly expressed.
For example: When a person looks at his watch and yawns multiple times as you are talking...what is being implied?
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