In the "Odyssey" Book 12, the epic simile in lines 271-275 compares Odysseus' situation to that of a man who, exhausted from working in his vegetable garden, finally gets a patch of stubborn thistles to yield. The simile serves to illustrate the long and difficult struggle that Odysseus has endured during his journey. Just as the hardworking gardener is finally able to conquer a challenging task, Odysseus, through his perseverance and determination, is on the verge of overcoming his own trying ordeal of navigating the treacherous dangers of the sea. The comparison emphasizes the sense of hard-won victory and the relief that comes with achieving a difficult goal after persistent effort.
