Literary Techniques Flashcards
refer to the specific methods and devices that writers use to convey meaning, create effects, and enhance the overall quality of their writing.
literary techniques
is a narrative device where the plot momentarily jumps forward in time, showing events that will happen in the future. This technique is often used to create suspense, foreshadow future events, or provide insight into characters’ fates.
flashforward
is the opposite of a flashforward. It involves interrupting the chronological sequence of events to depict something that happened in the past.
flashback
is a technique where the author hints at future events or outcomes in the story. This can be done through subtle clues, symbols, dialogue, or imagery.
foreshadowing
to a narrative technique where the story begins in the middle of the action, rather than at the chronological beginning.
in medias res
refers to a moment of sudden revelation or insight experienced by a character. It is a moment of profound realization, often resulting from a significant event or experience within the story.
epiphany
is a principle in storytelling attributed to the Russian playwright and writer ANTON CHEKHOV. The principle states that every element introduced in a story should serve a purpose.
Chekhov’s Gun
language which describes something in detail, using words to substitute for and create sensory stimulation,
imagery
the underlying truth that is being conveyed in the story. It is a significant idea/statement that the story is making about society, human nature, or the human condition.
theme
are linguistic devices or techniques that writers use to enhance their writing and create vivid imagery, evoke emotions, and convey meaning in a more impactful way.
figures of speech
makes an implicit, implied, or hidden comparison between two things that are unrelated, but which share some common characteristics.
metaphor
makes a comparison, showing similarities between two different things.
draws resemblance with the help of the words “like” or “as.” Therefore, it is a direct comparison.
simile
involves an exaggeration of ideas for the sake of emphasis.
hyperbole
is a literary device in which a part of something represents the whole, or it may use a whole to represent a part.
synecdoche
one object or idea takes the place of another with which it has a close association.
metonymy
is a figure of speech in which words are used in such a way that their intended meaning is different from the actual meaning of the words.
irony
pairing two words together that are opposing and/or contradictory.
oxymoron
It is a statement that appears to be self-contradictory or silly, but which may include a latent truth.
paradox
is a figure of speech in which a thing – an idea or an animal – is given human attributes
personification
is a figure of speech that makes use of reference, direct or implied, to something or someone
allusion
