Therefore, it makes sense to people to store computer documents in computer-generated folders that look like file folders. People can organize their hard disks in a way that's analogous to the way they organize their file cabinets. The desktop is the primary metaphor for the Macintosh interface. It appears to be a surface on which people can keep tools and documents. Several other metaphors are integrated into the desktop metaphor.
Menus are an extension of the desktop metaphor.
People can connect the idea of making choices from a computer menu with making choices from a restaurant menu. Although people don't keep restaurant menus on the edge of their desks, using the term menu in the computer environment reinforces the idea that people can use computer menus to make choices. Metaphors in the computer interface suggest a use for something, but that use doesn't define or limit the implementation of the metaphor. For example, a paper file folder has a limited storage capacity, but a folder on the Macintosh doesn't have to be constrained by the same limitations. Try to strike a balance between the metaphor's suggested use and the ability of the computer to support and extend the metaphor.