Question 11
GCE_MODEL_QUESTIONS_VOL1
•
2022
•
ENGLISH_LANGUAGE
•
objective
The sentence "The night was a black canvas, and the stars were silver pins" contains two different figures of speech. Identify each figure, explain the effect of each on the reader, and state how the combined use enhances the overall imagery.
Answer Options
A.
The first figure is a metaphor (\"night was a black canvas\"), but the second is a simile (\"stars were like silver pins\"), comparing stars to pins with \"like\". The combined effect is a mixed figurative style that slightly confuses the reader.
Correct Answer
B.
The first figure is a metaphor ("night was a black canvas"), which visualises darkness as an empty surface. The second figure is also a metaphor ("stars were silver pins"), giving the stars a sharp, puncturing quality. Together they create a layered visual contrast that deepens the imagery of a dark sky studded with bright points.
C.
The first figure is a simile (\"night was a black canvas\"), which compares darkness to a painted surface using \"like\" or \"as\". The second figure is personification (\"stars were silver pins\"), giving inanimate stars human qualities. Together they would suggest a whimsical tone rather than a stark visual contrast.
D.
Both expressions are hyperboles (\"night was a black canvas\", \"stars were silver pins\"), exaggerating the darkness and brightness beyond reality. The effect is to create an over‑dramatic impression, and the combined use merely amplifies the melodramatic mood.
Correct Answer
B
Correct Option:
The first figure is a metaphor ("night was a black canvas"), which visualises darkness as an empty surface. The second figure is also a metaphor ("stars were silver pins"), giving the stars a sharp, puncturing quality. Together they create a layered visual contrast that deepens the imagery of a dark sky studded with bright points.
About This Question
This is
Gce Model Questions Vol1
2022
English Language
Question 11.
It is one of the
objective
questions from the
2022
Gce Model Questions Vol1
English Language
examination.
Difficulty level:
Medium
.