This is an example of a simile, a comparison between two things using the words "like" or "as." "Gloomy as the night" is the simile here, since his sadness is being compared to nighttime.
With an attention grabbing introduction
Answer:
The act of not accepting something, or of saying that you do not have something; denial.
Explanation:
Example: Her abnegation of ice cream and cookies is due to her Olympic team training.
