What defines a simile in poetry?

A simile in poetry is defined as a comparison that uses the words "like" or "as" to draw a resemblance between two different things. This literary device allows poets to create vivid imagery and express complex ideas by relating one concept to another in an imaginative way. For example, saying "her smile is like the sun" draws a clear connection that evokes warmth and brightness, enhancing the reader's understanding of the subject’s qualities.

The other options represent different literary devices or techniques. An exaggerated statement corresponds to hyperbole, which intensifies a description but does not involve a comparison like a simile. A subtle hint towards motivation could be interpreted as foreshadowing or an allegorical reference, which also does not utilize the comparative structure defining similes. A direct citation from a source refers to quoting someone else's work, which lacks the metaphorical comparison characteristic of a simile.