Standard Literary Devices Flashcards
14 common literary devices
Metaphor
A metaphor is a statement in which two objects, often unrelated, are compared to each other(without the use of “like” or “as”).
Metaphors hint at a deeper meaning
Ex. The statue is the guardian of the villiage
Simile
A simile is a statement in which two objects, often unrelated, are compared to eachother with the use of “like” or “as”.
Similes are used for clarification and description
Ex. The tree sways like a man
Analogy
An analogy is an argumentative comparison: it compares two unalike things to advance an argument. Specifically, it argues that two things have equal weight, whether that weight be emotional, philosophical, or even literal.
It’s a form of metaphor
Ex. His name is bolt so it makes sense that he’s fast
Imagery
Imagery is the use of figurative language to describe something.
Writers use imagery to appeal to all five senses.
Ex. The forrest’s fragrance is fresh and crisp.
Symbolism
A symbol is the use of an object to represent a concept.
Symbolism makes the core ideas of your writing concrete.
Ex. The cross symbolizes the sacrafice of christ.
Personification
Personification is giving human attributes to nonhuman objects, is a powerful way to foster empathy in your readers
A type of Imagery.
Ex. The tree is like a man, his shoulders are broad and his arms are lanky.
Hyperbole
Hyperbole refers to any sort of exaggerated description or statement.
It should not be interpreted literaly.
Ex. I’m so hungry, I could eat a horse.
Irony
Irony is when the writer describes something by using opposite language.
Different from colloquial use for dark humor
Ex. The beggar ran into his Cadilac and zoomed on home to his mansion.
Juxtaposition
Juxtaposition refers to the placement of contrasting ideas next to each other, often to produce an ironic or thought-provoking effect.
Juxtaposition doesn’t have to be completely contrarian.
Ex. Red roses fell upon the rejection letter from Margrette.
Paradox
A paradox is a juxtaposition of contrasting ideas that, while seemingly impossible, actually reveals a deeper truth.
Paradox deconstructs binaries and challenges the reader’s beliefs.
Ex. I killed you so you can live forever.
Allusion
An allusion is when a writer alludes to something.
A reference to other literary works usually.
Ex. The park is like the Garden of Eden.
Allegory
An allegory is a story whose sole purpose is to represent an abstract concept or idea.
Sometimes considered an extended allusion.
Ex. Animal farm is an Allegory for stalin, communism, and the USSR.
Ekphrasis
Ekphrasis refers to a poem or story that is directly inspired by another piece of art.
Often describes another piece of art.
Ex. Roxanne, Roxanne by U.T.F.O. inspired many artist including Roxanne Shante to make responses of their own to the song.
Onomatopoeia
An onomatopoeia is a word that sounds like the noise it describes.
Onomatopoeia is immersive and playful.
Ex. Boom! Bang! Flop!
Pun
A pun is a literary device that plays with the sounds and meanings of words to produce new, often humorous ideas.
Ex. “Imagine changing Jesus’s diapers,” “Holy shit.”
