POPULAR LITERARY DEVICES

Prepared by: Ms. Erna B. Sagnoy

Alliteration
Definition:
Alliteration is a literary device where words are used in quick succession and begin with letters belonging to the
same sound group. Whether it is the consonant sound or a specific vowel group, the alliteration involves creating a
repetition of similar sounds in the sentence. Alliterations are also created when the words all begin with the same
letter. Alliterations are used to add character to the writing and often add an element of ‘fun’ to the piece.
Example:
The Wicked Witch of the West went her own way. The ‘W’ sound is highlighted and repeated throughout the
sentence.

Tongue twisters are a good example of alliteration. For instance, in “Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers”,
the “P” sound is repeated.

Imagery
Definition:
In literature, one of the strongest devices is imagery wherein the author uses words and phrases to create “mental
images” for the reader. Imagery helps the reader to visualize more realistically the author’s writings. The usage of
metaphors, allusions, descriptive words and similes amongst other literary forms in order to “tickle” and awaken
the readers’ sensory perceptions is referred to as imagery. Imagery is not limited to only visual sensations, but also
refers to igniting kinesthetic, olfactory, tactile, gustatory, thermal and auditory sensations as well.

Example:
The gushing brook stole its way down the lush green mountains, dotted with tiny flowers in a riot of colors and
trees coming alive with gaily chirping birds.

Hyperbole
Definition:
A hyperbole is a literary device wherein the author uses specific words and phrases that exaggerate and
overemphasize the basic crux of the statement in order to produce a grander, more noticeable effect. The purpose
of hyperbole is to create a larger-than-life effect and overly stress a specific point. Such sentences usually convey
an action or sentiment that is generally not practically/ realistically possible or plausible but helps emphasize an
emotion.

Example:
“I am so tired I cannot walk another inch” or “I’m so sleepy I might fall asleep standing here”.

Metaphor
Definition:
Metaphors are one of the most extensively used literary devices. A metaphor refers to a meaning or identity
ascribed to one subject by way of another. In a metaphor, one subject is implied to be another so as to draw a
comparison between their similarities and shared traits.

The first subject, which is the focus of the sentences is usually compared to the second subject, which is used to
convey a degree of meaning that is used to characterize the first. The purpose of using a metaphor is to take an
identity or concept that we understand clearly (second subject) and use it to better understand the lesser known
element (the first subject).

Example:
“Henry was a lion on the battlefield”. This sentence suggests that Henry fought so valiantly and bravely that he
embodied all the personality traits we attribute to the ferocious animal. This sentence implies immediately that
Henry was courageous and fearless, much like the King of the Jungle.
Allusion
Definition:
An allusion is a figure of speech whereby the author refers to a subject matter such as a place, event, or literary
work by way of a passing reference. It is up to the reader to make a connection to the subject being mentioned.

Example:
It’s no wonder everyone refers to Mary as another Mother Teresa in the making; she loves to help and care after
people everywhere, from the streets to her own friends.

In the example the author uses the mention of Mother Teresa to indicate the sort of qualities that Mary has.

Symbol
Definition:
A symbol is literary device that contains several layers of meaning, often concealed at first sight, and is
representative of several other aspects, concepts or traits than those that are visible in the literal translation alone.
Symbol is using an object or action that means something more than its literal meaning.

Example:
The phrase “a new dawn” does not talk only about the actual beginning of a new day but also signifies a new start, a
fresh chance to begin and the end of a previous tiring time.

Allegory
Definition:
An allegory suggests a hidden meaning via the use of metaphoric examples. An allegory is a device where the
meaning of a greater, often abstract moral or political concept is conveyed with the aid of more material objects or
ideas being used as an example.

Example:
Faith is like a stony uphill climb: a single stumble might send you sprawling but belief and steadfastness will see
you to the very top.

Personification
Definition:
Personification is one of the most commonly used and recognized literary devices. It refers to the practice of
attaching human traits and characteristics with inanimate objects, phenomena and animals.

Example:
“The raging winds”

“The wise owl”

“The warm and comforting fire”

Juxtaposition
Definition:
Juxtaposition is a literary device wherein the author places a person, concept, place, idea or theme parallel to
another. The purpose of juxtaposing two directly or indirectly related entities close together in literature is to
highlight the contrast between the two and compare them. This literary device is usually used for etching out a
character in detail, creating suspense or lending a rhetorical effect.

Example:
In Paradise Lost, Milton has used juxtaposition to draw a parallel between the two protagonists, Satan and God,
who he discusses by placing their traits in comparison with one another to highlight their differences.
SOURCE: literarydevices.com