" When you think of a metaphor, a trail in your brain is activated. (Yes, this trail is the set of brain-links you saw before.) The trail allows you to more easily do complex thinking about the “real” concept. Just by thinking of a metaphor, you’ve started understanding the tougher concept! Metaphors help you to get it faster. (All this relates to something called the “neural reuse theory.”8 You are reusing ideas you have already learned to assist you in learning new ideas.) "

― Barbara Oakley , Learning How to Learn: How to Succeed in School Without Spending All Your Time Studying; A Guide for Kids and Teens