literary devices Flashcards
what are the most common literary devices?
- simile
- metaphor
- imagery
- symbolism
- flashbacks
- foreshadowing
- motif
- allegory
- juxtaposition
- point of view
simile
A simile draws resemblance between two things by saying “Thing A is like Thing B” or “Thing A is as [adjective) as Thing B” Unlike a metaphor, a simile does not propose that these things are the same, only that they are alike. As a result, it is probably the most common literary device in writing.
– you can almost always recognise a simile through the use of “like” or “as.”
metaphor
A metaphor compares two similar things by saying that one of them is the other. As you’d likely expect, when it comes to literary devices, this one is a heavy hitter. And if a standard metaphor doesn’t do the trick, a writer can always try an extended metaphor: a metaphor that expands on the initial comparison through more elaborate parallels.
- comparing two unlike things without using like or as “Their cheeks were roses” is a metaphor while “their cheeks were like roses” is a simile.
extended metaphor
- an extended metaphor, also known as a conceit, is a rhetorical technique that explains a concept by directly mentioning another concept and drawing multiple parallels between them
- it is often used to explain a complex idea – allowing readers or listeners to visualise it in terms that they already understand.
- a metaphor that takes the comparison a few steps further
- as an example, if you wanted to explain how a traditional publishing house works with an author, you might compare it to a football team like so:
- The author is the quarterback, making the plays and taking the glory;
- The acquiring editor is the coach, calling the shots and giving the QB a team that compliments his skill set
imagery
Imagery appeals to readers’ senses through highly descriptive language. It’s crucial for any writer hoping to follow the rule of “show, don’t tell” as strong imagery truly paints a picture of the scene at hand.
symbolism
Authors turn to tangible symbols to represent abstract concepts and ideas in their stories. Symbols typically derive from objects or non-humans – for instance, a dove might represent peace, or raven might represent death.
motif
Whatever form a motif takes, it recurs throughout the novel and helps develop the theme of the narrative. This might be a symbol, concept, or image.
flashbacks
Flashbacks to previous events split up present-day scenes in a story, usually
build suspense toward a big reveal. Flashbacks are also an interesting way to present exposition for your story, gradually revealing to the reader what happened in the past.
foreshadowing
Foreshadowing is when the author hints at events yet to come in a story. Similar to flashbacks (and often used in conjunction with them), this technique is also used to create tension or suspense – giving readers just enough breadcrumbs to keep them hungry for more.
allegory
An allegory is a type of narrative that uses characters and plot to depict abstract ideas and themes. In an allegorical story, things represent more than they appear to on the surface. Many children’s fables, such as The Tortoise and the Hare, are simple allegories about morality – but allegories can also be dark, complex, and controversial.
juxtaposition
Juxtaposition places two or more dissimilar characters, themes, concepts, etc. side by side, and the profound contrast highlights their differences. Why is juxtaposition such an effective literary device? Well, because sometimes the best way for us to understand something is by understanding what it’s not.
repetition
Though too much repetition is rarely a good thing, occasional repetition can be used quite effectively to drill home a point, or to create a certain atmosphere. For example, horror writers often use repetition to make the reader feel trapped and scared.
point of view
Point of view is, of course, the mode of narration in a story. There are many POVs an author can choose, and each one will have a different impact on the reading experience.
