In literary analysis, which of the following would be considered a figure of speech that depicts a direct comparison to convey meaning?

A figure of speech that depicts a direct comparison to convey meaning is a metaphor. Metaphors draw parallels between two unlike things, suggesting that one thing is another, thereby allowing for a deeper understanding or insight into a concept. For instance, saying "Time is a thief" conveys the idea that time stealthily takes away moments from life, illustrating its impact in a vivid manner.

While similes also make comparisons, they do so using "like" or "as" to highlight similarities, which distinguishes them from metaphors that assert a direct equivalence. Allegories are extended narratives in which characters and events symbolize broader concepts or moral lessons, rather than relying on direct comparison in a singular phrase. Personification attributes human qualities to non-human entities, allowing for creative expression, but does not involve direct comparison as a metaphor does. Thus, the essence of a metaphor lies in its ability to create a striking connection between disparate ideas, facilitating richer interpretations in literary analysis.