Explanation:
1. "stood like a pillar of cloud torn"
Figurative language: a Simile.
Meaning: A Simile is a figurative language that makes a comparison between two things of a different kind to make a vivid description using 'like' or 'as'. In this example, the author is comparing someone who stood to a 'pillar of cloud torn'. This compares how unadmiring a torn pillar of cloud is with the way the person stood.
2. "faded banners of the departed summer ancient blood-stains against the dark-blue sky"
Figurative language: a Metaphor
Meaning: a Metaphor is symbolic (non-literal) comparison of an object or action with another thing, action, or idea in other to explain an idea. Hence, the expression, "summer ancient blood-stains" refers to horrific events in the past that resulted in "dark-blue sky" (or grief).
