Why is it important to be able to recognize figurative language in literature

Figurative language plays a major role in compelling literary works. Figurative language is a contrast to literal language. Its primary purpose is to force readers to imagine or intuit what an author means with an expression or statement. Figurative language can affect the mood of a short story. The term mood refers to the atmosphere that envelopes the reader and evokes certain feelings. Figurative language is used to draw the reader into the story quickly.