Literary Devices and Figures of Speech

Four fear then; four fears now.

The figurative language in this sentence uses metaphors to convey a sense of chaos and overwhelming pressure. Comparing her life to a "disorganized file cabinet" suggests that her responsibilities and demands are cluttered and unmanageable. The imagery of the desk being "littered" with urgent demands emphasizes the constant barrage of tasks she faces, highlighting her struggle to maintain order amidst the chaos. Overall, it vividly illustrates the stress and disorder in her life.

Rhetorical questions, anaphoras, parallelism, reverse parallelism, allusion, alliteration...

He uses basically everything.

The figure of speech in the phrase "Suffer not yourself to be betrayed by a kiss" is metaphorical language, specifically using the kiss as a symbol of betrayal. The kiss traditionally represents affection or love, but in this context, it is juxtaposed with betrayal, suggesting that something seemingly innocuous or intimate can conceal deeper deceit. This contrast highlights the complexity of relationships and the potential for hidden motives.

to roll your eyes or to ignore someone

Figurative language is generally not considered formal; it often employs imaginative and creative expressions that evoke emotions or vivid imagery. It includes devices like metaphors, similes, and personification, which can make language more relatable and engaging. While it can be used in formal writing, its nature tends to be more informal and expressive, enhancing the emotional impact rather than adhering strictly to formal conventions.

In "Chains," Laurie Halse Anderson employs figurative language to vividly convey the emotional and physical struggles of her characters, particularly the enslaved protagonist, Isabel. Metaphors and similes illustrate the harsh realities of slavery, such as comparing Isabel's feelings of confinement to a bird trapped in a cage. Imagery is used to evoke the oppressive atmosphere of 18th-century America, making the historical context tangible for readers. This use of figurative language deepens the reader's connection to the characters and enhances the story's themes of freedom and resilience.

In "Rocket Boys" by Homer Hickam, one metaphor is when he describes the rockets as "the little stars that could" (page 37), which symbolizes the boys' dreams and aspirations. Another example is when he refers to the town of Coalwood as "a black hole" (page 75), illustrating how the town's struggles and limitations seem to pull its inhabitants down, much like the gravitational pull of a black hole.

The figure of speech "to have thick skin" means to be emotionally resilient or able to withstand criticism, insult, or adversity without being easily hurt or offended. It implies a certain toughness and the ability to remain unaffected by negative comments or challenging situations. Individuals with thick skin can navigate difficult interactions and maintain their composure, often seen as a valuable trait in competitive or high-stress environments.

The phrase "made enough dinner to feed an army" is an example of hyperbole, which is an exaggerated statement not meant to be taken literally. This figurative language emphasizes the large quantity of food prepared, suggesting it is excessive or abundant. It conveys the idea that the meal was so plentiful that it could satisfy a vast number of people, creating a vivid image of generosity and hospitality.

Martin Luther King Jr. employs various rhetorical strategies in his "Letter from Birmingham Jail" to persuade his audience of the urgent need for civil rights in Birmingham. He uses ethos by establishing his credibility as a clergyman and civil rights leader, appealing to shared moral values. King also utilizes pathos to evoke empathy and urgency by recounting the personal experiences of African Americans facing injustice, thereby stirring emotional responses. Additionally, he employs logos by presenting logical arguments and historical context to demonstrate that waiting for change only perpetuates injustice, making the need for immediate action clear.