Here's why:
* Simile: A simile is a figure of speech that directly compares two things using the words "like" or "as".
* In the statement: "Old fears" are being compared to "cobwebs" using the word "like".
This simile creates a vivid image in the reader's mind. It helps us understand that old fears, like cobwebs, are:
* Persistent: Cobwebs stick around even after they've been cleaned. Similarly, old fears can linger in our minds even after we've dealt with them.
* Dusty and Unpleasant: Cobwebs are often associated with darkness, decay, and something unpleasant. This reinforces the idea that old fears can be negative and unwelcome.
By using this simile, the author effectively conveys the idea that old fears can be hard to shake off and continue to haunt us even when we try to move on.