In essence, both are very much the same. That said, most would say that prose is more straightforward information without much decoration (description or use of figurative language). Poets use figurative language in their writing to make it more interesting or colorful or entertaining. A simile is comparing two things using like or as. For example, the penny was a shiny as a new pair of shoes. Personification is giving human characteristics to something non-human. For example, the door hinges screeched telling us they needed oil.
