What thematic concept explores the abstract relationships between two things?

The thematic concept that explores the abstract relationships between two things is metaphor. A metaphor directly compares two unrelated subjects, suggesting that one thing is another to highlight similarities and relationships that may not be immediately obvious. This allows for a deeper understanding of the qualities and characteristics of each subject involved.

Metaphors often convey complex ideas in a more relatable way, making them a powerful literary and rhetorical device. For example, saying "Time is a thief" suggests that time steals moments from our lives without literally equating time with a thief. This type of comparison creates a richer layer of meaning and insight.

In contrast, while symbolism also deals with abstract relationships, it primarily involves using symbols to represent larger ideas or concepts, which differs from the direct comparison found in metaphors. Simile, on the other hand, makes comparisons using "like" or "as," which is less holistic than a metaphor. Literalism refers to interpreting words in their most basic sense without abstraction, making it quite distinct from the notion of exploring abstract relationships.