I think its subject-by-subject comparison, hope this helps
"Like sparks from a blacksmith's window" refers to the sparks that happen when a blacksmith is working. The meaning depends on the context. The context should usually be something like anger, exploding anger, or it could be excitement...
I forgot the name of this story, what was it?
B. Samara identified a need in her community and worked hard to fulfill that need.
Hope I helped
