Figures of Speech OR

Metaphorical Language

English 1302Page 760

A MetaphorShows that something unknown is identical to

something known.

Are inseparable from language.

A SimileShows that something unknown is similar to

something known.

Shows a likeness or resemblance.

CharacteristicsImage and Imagery

Stimulate the imagination.

Recall memories of sights, sounds, tastes, smells, sensations or touch, and motions.

Go beyond literary imagery.

Introduces perceptions and comparisons.

ExamplesKeats – page 762

A ParadoxUses an apparent error or contradiction t reveal

truth.

“A thought beyond a thought”

AnaphoraTo carry again or repeat.

Provides weight and emphasis through repetition.

Examples:

Keats/page 765

PersonificationAttribution of human traits to abstractions or to

nonhuman objects.

Synecdoche and Metonymy

Transfer meanings by parts and associations.

Synecdodoche

“taking one thing out of another”

“all hands aboard!”

Metonymy

Transfer of name

“Hollywood” used to mean the movie industry

“The White House” signifying politics and activities of the President.

Pun or ParonomasiaWords with similar or identical sounds have

different meanings.

Pun

A point or a puncture

Paronomasia

Something alongside a name.

Example

Gay/page 767

SynesthesiaDemonstrates oneness or unity of feelings.

Example

Keats / Chapter 18 – “Ode to a Nightengale”

Overstatement and Understatement

Overstatement (hyperbole)

Overreacher

Exaggeration for effect

Example

Wordsworth declares England “is a fen/Of stagnant waters.

Understatement

Deliberate underplay or undervaluing of a thing.

Example

Marvell’s “To His Coy Mistress” (Chapter 19)

Let’s Read!Burns 770;

Donne 771;

Hardy 775;

Keats 778.