Proverbs 25: Solomon's Similes

Beginning in chapter 25, we see a subtle shift in the tone and format of the proverbs.  The chapter begins, "These are other proverbs of Solomon that the officials of King Hezekiah of Judah copied" (vs. 1).  Compiled by a later king, these recorded words of Solomon have a slightly different feel than what went before.  For instance, we find a lot of similes.

Similes express a similarity between two different things using the words "like" or "as."  Related to parables, these similes draw a connection to help us understand the root feeling or attitude we should have about Solomon's main subject. Many times, these comparative objects are drawn from nature or everyday experiences from that era, such as the weather or commonplace items.

"Like the cold of snow in the time of harvest are faithful messengers to those who send them" (vs. 13).  How so?  Solomon goes on to add, "They refresh the spirit of their masters."  The emphasis on refreshment explains how these two quite different things are alike.

"Like a city breached, without walls, is one who lacks self-control" (vs. 28).  A defeated city was probably a familiar occurrence in Solomon's day; he compares such a defenseless and overcome location with a person who himself stands vulnerable due to his lack of self-control.

Often, the key element to appreciate in one of Solomon's similes is whether the compared object is pleasant or distasteful, appealing or repugnant.

"Like a bad tooth or a lame foot is trust in a faithless person in time of trouble" (vs. 19).  Here is an experience of being let down, finding a part of yourself that should be okay to be in fact unreliable.  An injured body part is similar because it means you have put your trust in the wrong person.

"Like cold water to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country" (vs. 25).  The pleasure of getting your thirst quenched by deliciously cold water is an experience that almost everyone can relate to.  Solomon equates that feeling with the joy of receiving good news from afar.

What kind of present-day similes would you compose to describe life in the twenty-first century?  Would you incorporate modern technology or history to make your point?  How could you best make sure it adequately conveys your meaning while standing the test of time?