Glossary
Alliteration
The repetition of initial consonant sounds in words that are close together.
Example:
The alliteration in 'Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers' creates a playful, rhythmic effect.
Allusion
An indirect or direct reference to a well-known person, place, event, literary work, or historical period.
Example:
A character's journey described as an 'Odyssey' is an allusion to Homer's epic poem, suggesting a long and arduous voyage.
Ambiguous Language
Language that is open to more than one interpretation, often containing words or phrases with multiple possible meanings.
Example:
The line 'The old man's gaze was fixed on the bank' could refer to a river bank or a financial institution, making the meaning of 'bank' ambiguous language.
Contrast
The juxtaposition of two or more ideas, characters, settings, or objects to highlight their differences.
Example:
In a poem, the stark difference between a bustling city street and a quiet, secluded forest emphasizes the theme of nature versus industry through contrast.
Hyperbole
Exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally, used for emphasis or effect.
Example:
Saying 'I'm so hungry I could eat a horse' is an example of hyperbole, emphasizing extreme hunger rather than literal capability.
Imagery
The use of vivid and descriptive language that appeals to one or more of the five senses, creating a mental picture for the reader.
Example:
The line 'The scent of damp earth and pine needles filled the crisp morning air' uses strong imagery to evoke sensory details.
Metaphor
A direct comparison between two unlike things without using 'like' or 'as,' stating that one thing *is* another.
Example:
When a poet writes 'The moon was a ghostly galleon,' they are using a metaphor to directly compare the moon to a ship.
Personification
Attributing human qualities, characteristics, or actions to inanimate objects, animals, or abstract ideas.
Example:
In 'The wind whispered secrets through the trees,' the wind is given the human action of whispering, demonstrating personification.
Simile
A comparison between two unlike things using the words 'like' or 'as.'
Example:
The phrase 'Her smile was as bright as the sun' uses a simile to compare a smile to the sun.
Symbolism
The use of objects, people, or ideas to represent abstract concepts or deeper meanings beyond their literal sense.
Example:
A dove appearing in a poem often serves as symbolism for peace or hope.