What are some good metaphors or similes that reveal intelligence, determination, motivation, strength, perfection or persistence?They do not all...

As a suggestion about writing metaphors, remember that
there are four ways to write metaphors, depending on whether the literal and figurative
terms are respectively named or
implied:

1. In the first form, both
the literal and figurative terms are named.

e.g. Maurice
was as intent upon his purpose as sprinter three yards from the finish
line.

2. In the second form, the literal term is named and
the figurative term is implied.

e.g. Jack's strength
exploded.

3. In the third form, the literal term is not
named, but the figurative term is.

e.g. Gene's relentless
quest continued

4.  In the fourth term, both the literal
term and the figurative term are implied.

e.g.  She drives
forth, denying herself any weakness.

Remember, too, that
similes are stated comparisons of two unlike elements using either
as....as or
like.