In a poem, is there really any difference between a symbol and a metaphor?

Question:

In a poem, is there really any difference between a symbol and a metaphor?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:

A metaphor can use a symbol. However does not mean the literal sense. For example, "The sun is a rising dragon." This is a metaphor. It is creating a simile without using the words "like" or "as". Symbol used in poetry is the use of symbolism. It depends on who wrote the poem, when it was written, and what was the common meaning for the symbolism. For example, if I were to say , "He is the dragon". Dragon used in this context can be the symbol of either "power, immortality, or evil". A metaphor can use symbols but if a symbol is used in a literal sense. The symbol can not use the common hidden meaning. Therefore it is no longer be a symbol.