How would the paragraph be different if the author did not use figurative language?

As I walked home, the storm began. First the wind struck me
with the force of a prizefighter's fist. Its claws snatched at my
clothes as I bent forward resisting its explosive burst of force.
Suddenly I could not breathe. I turned my head gasping as I
snatched the air from my lungs like a giant vacuum pump.
Finally, I succeeded in reaching the house by walking backwards,
all the while feeling the wind thump on my back like
a thousand horses straining for the finish line.

Most likely the paragraph would not be as vivid or engaging for the reader.

Explanation:

For example (and I'll try my best here) this is what the paragraph might sound like if it didn't have such figurative language:

As I walked home, the storm began. The wind was very strong, so i had a hard time walking forward. I was able to make it to the house by walking backwards, still with great difficulty.

Remember, authors use figurative language such as metaphors or similes to paint a picture for the audience, or to get a certain point across. In this instance the author is trying to relate to the reader of the sheer power the wind possessed over the narrator's body.

i love it

explanation:

keep up the good work ; )