You see, it's really quite simple. A simile is just a mode of comparison employing 'as' and 'like' to reveal the hidden character or essence of whatever we want to describe, and through the use of fancy, association, contrast, extension, or imagination, to enlarge our understanding or perception of human experience and observation.

Summary

In this quote, the speaker explains the concept of a simile as a straightforward tool for making comparisons through the use of "as" and "like." They emphasize that similes allow us to uncover the true nature or essence of the subject we are describing. By employing various techniques such as imagination, association, contrast, or extending the comparison, similes enhance our comprehension and perception of human experiences and observations. Ultimately, this quote asserts that similes serve as a means to expand our understanding of the world around us.