I presume this is from Lewis Carol's nonsense poem "Jabberwocky," when he uses the phrases "vorpal" it means deadly. A deadly sword.
What is the question to this because I only see a answer.
Answer:
Simile
Explanation:
A simile is comparing 2 things using like or as. In this case, it used as, compared with an empty well to describe how dry their mouth is.
<span>"and his smile showed red lips and pointed teeth." is a good hint.
If you think about it, this line is the only one that would be used to describe an animal.
You can ask yourself, what do you think of when you read that line.
When I read it I could almost imagine a predator like a wolf snarling, showing it's vicious teeth. In effect, when he opened his mouth to smile it's like you're getting a glimpse into him and his nature.
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