Repetition: Literary Device

It’s the repetition of affirmations that leads to belief. And once that belief becomes a deep conviction, things begin to happen. Muhammad Ali

Etymology of Repetition

The term “repetition” comes from the Latin word repetitio, which means “repetition, recitation, or rehearsal.” Its derivative is the verb repetere, which means “to demand again, or to repeat.”

The prefix “re-” means “again,” and “petere” means “to seek, to ask for.” Therefore, repetition refers to the act of repeating something already been said or done.

Literal Meanings of Repetition
Type of RepetitionDefinitionPurpose
CommunicationThe act of repeating something already said or done.Often used for emphasis or clarity.
MusicThe repeating of a musical phrase or motif.Creates familiarity and tension in the music.
LiteratureOften used for rhetorical effect.Emphasizes a particular point in the text.
Psychology and TherapyThe act of repeating a behavioral trait or thought.A powerful tool for establishing new patterns of behavior and thought.
Repetition in Grammar
  • A repetition is a noun with its plural form as “repetitions.”
  • The verb used with “repetition” depends on the context.
  • In the case of a specific repetition of a musical phrase, we might use a singular verb. For instance, “The repetition was effective.”
  • When referring to multiple repetitions of a behavioral trait, a plural verb is employed. For instance, “The repetitions have strengthened the neural pathways.”
Definition of Repetition

In literature, it is a literary device that involves repeating a word or phrase to create emphasis or rhythm. It has various uses such as to create a sense of urgency, to reinforce a theme or idea, or to highlight the importance of a particular concept or image. It also creates a sense of musicality in writing through a rhythmic pattern pleasing to the ear. It is a powerful tool to help writers to make their writings impactful and effective.

Types of Repetition

There are several types used in literature and other forms of communication. Here are some of the most common types with examples:

Type of RepetitionDefinitionExample from Literature
AnaphoraRepetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or sentences.“I have a dream that one day… I have a dream that one day… I have a dream that one day…”
(Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech)
EpiphoraRepetition of a word or phrase at the end of successive clauses or sentences.“Where now? Who now? When now?”
(Samuel Beckett’s The Unnamable)
PolyptotonRepetition of a word in a different form or tense.“But love is blind, and lovers cannot see / The pretty follies that themselves commit”
(William Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice)
AnadiplosisRepetition of the last word of one clause at the beginning of the next clause.“Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering.” (Yoda in Star Wars)
ChiasmusRepetition of words or phrases in reverse order.“Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.”
(John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address)
AlliterationRepetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words.“Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers.”
AssonanceRepetition of vowel sounds in words.“Men sell the wedding bells.”
ConsonanceRepetition of consonant sounds within words.“All’s well that ends well.”

These are just a few examples of the many types used in literature and communication to create emphasis, rhythm, and impact. However, it is interesting to note that all of these are literary devices in their own right and have their own specific features.

Common Examples

Repetition is a common occurrence in everyday conversation, often used for emphasis or clarification. Here are some examples of repetitions that occur in everyday conversation:

  1. “Can you pass the salt, please? The salt, the one next to you.”
  2. “I really, really like your outfit.”
  3. “I told him no, no, absolutely not.”
  4. “I can’t believe he did that, I mean, really, I can’t believe it.”
  5. “I had a terrible day today. Everything went wrong, I mean everything.”
  6. “It’s a beautiful, beautiful day outside.”
  7. “I need to study, study hard, if I want to pass this exam.”
  8. “I’m sorry, sorry I was late, I got stuck in traffic.”

These are just a few examples of how repetition are used or occurin everyday conversation to emphasize or clarify a point. It is a natural part of human communication and can be used to great effect in both formal and informal contexts.

Literary Examples of Repetition
SourceExtractExplanation
Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities“I have a dream that one day…I have a dream that one day…I have a dream that one day…”Anaphora: Repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or sentences. Used to emphasize King’s vision of a better future and rally his audience behind his cause.
Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Raven”“Quoth the Raven, ‘Nevermore.’”Epiphora: It is a word or phrase at the end of successive clauses or sentences. Creates a sense of horror and emphasizes the finality of the Raven’s message.
Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness…”Repetitive Structures: Repetition used for parallelism and balance. Highlights the contrasts between the two cities and their residents.
Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner”“Water, water, everywhere, And all the boards did shrink; Water, water, everywhere, Nor any drop to drink.” It is used to create a sense of despair and hopelessness. Emphasizes the Mariner’s isolation and desperation.
Suggested Readings
  1. Barthes, Roland. “Repetition.” Image-Music-Text, edited by Stephen Heath, Hill and Wang, 1977, pp. 142-148.
  2. Fled, Steven. Sound and Sentiment: Birds, Weeping, Poetics, and Song in Kaluli Expression. 2nd ed., University of Pennsylvania Press, 2016.
  3. Hobsbaum, Philip. Metre, Rhythm and Verse Form. Routledge, 2013.
  4. Rimmon-Kenan, Shlomith. Narrative Fiction: Contemporary Poetics. 2nd ed., Routledge, 2002.
  5. Shklovsky, Viktor. Theory of Prose. Translated by Benjamin Sher, Dalkey Archive Press, 1991.

More from Literary Devices:

Red Herring: Using and Not Using?

A red herring is a literary/rhetorical device involving the introduction of irrelevant information to divert attention from the main issue.

Introduction

A red herring is a literary and rhetorical device involving the introduction of irrelevant information or arguments to divert attention from the main issue or argument. It is used to mislead or confuse the audience, often by presenting a misleading clue or distraction. This fallacy can lead to faulty reasoning and hinder a clear understanding of the subject at hand. These sources likely explore the concept and usage of red herrings in various contexts, such as literature, argumentation, and critical thinking.

How to Create Red Herring in Your Writing?

Creating a red herring in a fictional work could be an effective way to add tension and intrigue to the story. Here are some tips on how to create a red herring:

StepExplanationPractical Example
1. Plausible Suspects or MotivesIntroduce believable culprits or motives.In the mystery novel, present a character with a motive that appears convincing but later turns out to be innocent.
2. Misdirection: Diverting AttentionUse hints to steer readers away from the suspect.Drop subtle hints implying a different character’s guilt, leading readers to consider them as the potential culprit.
3. Multiple Suspects or MotivesPresent various possibilities to confuse readers.Introduce multiple characters with plausible motives, making it challenging for readers to pinpoint the real culprit.
4. Unreliable NarrationEmploy an untrustworthy narrator.Have a narrator with personal biases or deceptive tendencies narrate the story, casting doubt on their account of events.
5. Genre ConventionsPlay with genre expectations.In a detective story, have the detective initially suspect a character who, according to genre norms, seems guilty but is not.

By using these techniques, you can create a red herring that will keep your readers guessing and add depth and complexity to your fictional work.

Benefits of Red Herring

Red herrings can provide several benefits in writing. Here are some of the main benefits:

  1. Increased Tension: Creating it increases suspense and anticipation by leaving readers unsure of the true culprit or motive.
  2. Deeper Characterization: Introducing a red herring allows for in-depth exploration of different characters’ motivations and actions, even if they are not the actual culprit.
  3. Surprise Twist: It can set up a surprising twist ending, especially when readers are led to believe one character is guilty, only to discover it was someone else entirely.
  4. Reader Engagement: Creating a red herring keeps readers engaged as they actively try to solve the mystery and identify the true culprit, making the reading experience more interactive.
  5. Improved Pacing: Introducing it enhances story pacing by providing a natural narrative break, allowing readers to reassess the situation before progressing to the next part of the story.
Red Herring and Literary Theory

Red herring can be analyzed through various literary theories. Here are a few examples:

Literary TheoryCritique of Red Herring
Reader Response TheoryThey engage readers by presenting false leads and encouraging them to actively interpret the text. They challenge assumptions and promote critical thinking as readers navigate through misleading clues and question their own understanding of the story.
Structuralism TheoryRed herrings disrupt reader expectations and conventional narrative structures. They introduce unexpected elements, creating tension and suspense. By destabilizing the narrative structure, red herrings prompt readers to reassess their assumptions about the story, encouraging a deeper engagement with the text.
Postmodernism TheoryIt challenges the notion of fixed truths by introducing uncertainty and multiple possibilities. They highlight the limitations of language and storytelling in capturing an objective reality. By incorporating red herrings, the authors emphasize the subjectivity of interpretations and invite readers to question their own understanding of the story’s events.
Feminist Literary TheoryRed herrings can perpetuate or subvert gender stereotypes in literature. Depending on their portrayal, red herrings can reinforce traditional assumptions about women or challenge them. A red herring that leads the reader to suspect a female character of a crime may perpetuate negative stereotypes, while a red herring that subverts these assumptions by exonerating the female character challenges gender biases and provides a critique of societal expectations.
Suggested Readings
  1. Adams, Mary. The Red Herring in Mystery Novels. Random House, 2016.
  2. Finn, Kavita Mudan. “Pickled Red Herring.” Shakespeare and Creative Criticism, edited by Rob Conkie and Scott Maisano, 1st ed., vol. 4, Berghahn Books, 2019, pp. 61–100. JSTOR, https://doi.org/10.2307/j.ctv1850h61.8. Accessed 16 July 2023.
  3. Tindale, Christopher W. Fallacies and argument appraisal. Cambridge University Press, 2007.

Red Herring: Literary Device

A red herring is a deliberate diversion from the main issue or topic being discussed. It is a tactic used to steer attention away from an uncomfortable topic.

Etymology of Red Herring

The phrase “red herring” originated from the practice of using a strong-smelling fish called a red herring to mislead hunting dogs during training in the 17th century. By dragging the fish across the intended scent trail, the dogs would be distracted and led astray. Over time, the term metaphorically evolved to describe any misleading or distracting tactic used to divert attention from the truth or the main point of an argument, and it is now commonly used in various contexts to signify intentional deception or confusion.

Meanings of Red Herring

  • Red herring refers to a deliberate diversion or distraction from the main issue or topic being discussed.
  • It is commonly used as a tactic in debates or arguments to steer attention away from an uncomfortable or unfavorable topic.
  • A red herring can also be a false lead or clue intentionally introduced to misdirect an investigation.
  • In literature, it serves as a plot device used to mislead the reader or create suspense.

Red Herring in Grammar

  • The term is singular and takes a singular verb. For example, you would say “That red herring is misleading” instead of “That red herring are misleading.”
  • When referring to multiple instances, you would use the plural form “red herrings” and employ a plural verb.
  • For instance, you would say “These red herrings are deceptive” rather than “These red herrings is deceptive.”

Definition of Red Herring

It is a deliberate diversion or distraction from the main issue or topic being discussed. It is a literary device used to steer attention away from an uncomfortable or unfavorable topic. This term can also refer to a false lead or clue that is intentionally introduced to misdirect an investigation or confuse someone.

Types of Term

There are several types of red herring, including:

TypeDefinitionExample
Ignoring the issueThis occurs when someone completely disregards the topic being discussed and instead focuses on a different, often irrelevant, subject.Person A: “We need to address the rising crime rates in our city.”
Person B: “Well, what about the weather? It’s been great lately.”
Personal AttackThis happens when someone attacks the character of the person making the argument rather than addressing the argument itself.Person A: “I believe we should invest in renewable energy sources.”
Person B: “Why should we listen to you? You’re just a lazy slacker.”
Straw ManThis happens when someone creates a distorted or exaggerated version of the opposing argument to make it easier to attack.Person A: “I think we should improve the healthcare system.”
Person B: “So, you’re saying we should just give everyone free healthcare?”
Changing the SubjectThis occurs when someone changes the topic of discussion to something unrelated to the original issue.Person A: “We need to address the budget deficit.”
Person B: “Did you see the latest episode of that TV show? It was amazing!”
False DilemmaThis is when someone presents only two options, both unfavorable to force a decision in their favor.Person A: “Either we increase taxes or we cut funding for education. It’s your choice.” Person B: “There must be other alternatives.”
Circular ReasoningThis happens when someone uses the conclusion of their argument as evidence to support their argument. It is also known as begging the question.Person A: “God exists because the Bible says so, and the Bible is the word of God.” Person B: “That’s just circular reasoning.”
Ad HominemThis is a specific type of personal attack that involves attacking the person making the argument rather than addressing the argument itself.Person A: “I think we should focus on improving public transportation.”
Person B: “Why should we listen to you? You’re a terrible driver.”

Literary Examples of Red Herring

ExampleExplanation
The Hound of the Baskervilles by Arthur Conan DoyleIn this detective novel, a mysterious hound is believed to be responsible for a string of murders. However, it is later revealed that the hound is a red herring, meant to mislead the characters and readers, as the true killer is someone else entirely.
“The Cask of Amontillado” by Edgar Allan PoeIn this short story, a man seeks revenge by luring another man into a wine cellar. While the revenge plot is the primary focus, the true motive for the revenge is left ambiguous, creating a sense of uncertainty and making it a potential red herring in the narrative.
The Sign of Four by Arthur Conan DoyleIn this Sherlock Holmes novel, a treasure hunt is undertaken to find a missing person. However, it is later revealed that the treasure hunt itself is a red herring, diverting attention from the true motive and culprits involved in the crime being investigated.
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott FitzgeraldIn this classic novel, the murder of a character is initially believed to be the work of a jealous husband. However, it reveals later that the husband is a red herring, distracting from the motive and complex web of relationships that led to the his demise.
Macbeth by William ShakespeareIn this play, a prophecy leads Macbeth to believe he will become king of Scotland. However, the prophecy itself is a red herring as it drives Macbeth toward his fate, blinding him to the consequences of his actions and the downfall he faces.

Suggested Readings

  1. Finn, Kavita Mudan. “Pickled Red Herring.” Shakespeare and Creative Criticism, edited by Rob Conkie and Scott Maisano, 1st ed., vol. 4, Berghahn Books, 2019, pp. 61–100. JSTOR, https://doi.org/10.2307/j.ctv1850h61.8. Accessed 16 July 2023.
  2. Guthke, Karl S. “Revelation or Deceit?: Last Words in Detective Novels.” Exploring the Interior: Essays on Literary and Cultural History, 1st ed., Open Book Publishers, 2018, pp. 289–318. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/j.ctv4ncnxx.15. Accessed 16 July 2023.
  3. “Red Herring.” Economic and Political Weekly, vol. 8, no. 11, 1973, pp. 529–529. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/4362407. Accessed 16 July 2023.
  4. “Red Herring.” Economic and Political Weekly, vol. 13, no. 22, 1978, pp. 890–890. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/4366669. Accessed 16 July 2023.
You may read more on Literary Devices below:

Portmanteau: Using and Critiquing It

Portmanteau words are created by combining two or more words or parts of words to form a new word that conveys a unique meaning.

How to Create Portmanteau in Your Writing

Portmanteau words are created by combining two or more words or parts of words to form a new word that conveys a unique meaning. Here are some tips on how to create your own portmanteau:

StepHow to Do itExample
1.Choose Two Or More WordsIf you want to create a portmanteau, start by selecting two or more words that are related to the meaning you want to convey. For example, if you want to combine “breakfast” and “lunch,” you could choose the words “break” and “lunch” as the basis for your portmanteau.
2.Identify The Shared Syllable Or SoundLook for a syllable or sound that the chosen words have in common. This shared element will be the foundation of your portmanteau. For instance, the words “breakfast” and “lunch” share the sound “br,” which can be used as the shared element in the creation of the portmanteau “brunch.”
3.Combine The WordsUtilizing the shared syllable or sound as the starting point, merge the selected words to form your portmanteau. Experiment with different combinations until you find one that sounds pleasing and effectively conveys the desired meaning. In our example, combining “break” and “lunch” gives us the portmanteau “brunch.”
4.Define The New WordOnce you have created your portmanteau, provide a definition that clarifies its meaning to others. While you can draw inspiration from the words you combined, the definition should capture the unique concept represented by the new word. For “brunch,” you could define it as “a meal eaten between breakfast and lunch.”
5.Use The New WordTo popularize your portmanteau, incorporate it into your everyday vocabulary. By using the word regularly, you increase the likelihood of others adopting it. With time, it might even become part of the broader lexicon.

Some examples of portmanteau words created in recent years include “bromance” (brother + romance), “chillax” (chill + relax), “infomercial” (information + commercial), and “staycation” (stay + vacation).

Benefits of Portmanteau

A portmanteau is defined as a linguistic blend of words in which parts of multiple words are combined into a new word. Here are some benefits of using portmanteau:

  1. Conciseness: Portmanteaus convey complex ideas or concepts in a concise manner. By combining two or more words into one, you can create a word that expresses a new concept more efficiently than using separate words.
  2. Creativity: Portmanteaus allow for creative expression and can be used to create new and unique words that can capture the imagination of the audience. This can be especially useful in fields like marketing, advertising, and branding.
  3. Memorable: Portmanteaus can be catchy and easy to remember, making them effective in marketing and branding campaigns. For example, “Brangelina” (Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie) or “Jumbotron” (giant screen).
  4. Fun: Portmanteaus could be playful and fun, adding an element of humor or wit to the language. This can make communication more enjoyable and engaging.
  5. Efficiency: Portmanteaus could be used to create efficient technical terminology, especially in fields like science and technology. For example, “Biopic” (biographical film) or “Sitcom” (situation comedy).
Portmanteau and Literary Theory

Portmanteau can be a useful tool for literary theorists and scholars in analyzing and interpreting texts. Here are some examples of how portmanteau can be used in literary theories:

Literary TheorySignificance of PortmanteauExample from LiteratureInterpretation
StructuralismBlending of multiple meanings and concepts into a single word“Brunch” – combination of “breakfast” and “lunch”Portrays the merging of two distinct ideas or concepts, highlighting the fluidity of language and the possibility of new meanings
PostmodernismDeconstruction and subversion of traditional language boundaries“Spanglish” – combination of Spanish and EnglishChallenges the notion of linguistic purity, emphasizes hybridity and cultural blending in a globalized world
SurrealismUnconscious associations and juxtapositions in language“Chortle” – combination of “chuckle” and “snort”Creates a nonsensical, dreamlike effect by merging incongruous sounds and meanings
DadaismPlayful disruption of language and meaning“Zyzzyva” – coined word with no specific meaningRejects the conventional rules of language, emphasizing randomness and anti-rationality
Feminist TheorySubverting patriarchal language structures“Herstory” – combination of “her” and “history”Challenges the dominance of male-centered language, highlights women’s experiences and contributions

Note: The interpretations provided are general and may vary depending on the specific literary context and the readers’ interpretation.

Suggested Readings
  1. Carroll, Lewis. Through the Looking-Glass, and What Alice Found There. Macmillan, 1871.
  2. Crystal, David. The Stories of English. Overlook Press, 2004.
  3. Lodge, David. The Modes of Modern Writing: Metaphor, Metonymy, and Portmanteau. Routledge, 1977.
  4. Wittgenstein, Ludwig. Philosophical Investigations. Translated by G. E. M. Anscombe, Blackwell, 1953.

Portmanteau: Literary Device

A portmanteau, as a linguistic phenomenon, refers to the amalgamation of two or more lexical units or morphemes, resulting in a new word form.

Etymology of Portmanteau

The word “portmanteau” comes from the French language. It originally referred to a large traveling bag with two compartments. It is a combination of two French words: porter, which means “to carry,” and manteau, which means “cloak.” The concept of combining two separate compartments into a single bag led to the word’s figurative meaning, which is to blend or merge two words or concepts to create a new word.

Meanings of Portmanteau
  • Combination of words or parts of words
  • Blending of sounds and meanings
  • Creating a new word by merging two or more words together
  • Forming a concise expression or term by combining elements
  • Utilizing a linguistic technique to create a compact and unique word
  • A literary device that condenses or abbreviates language through fusion
  • Combining the characteristics or qualities of two or more words into one
  • Inventive word formation by merging lexical elements
Portmanteau in Grammar
  • Grammatically “Portmanteau” is;
    • Singular noun: “portmanteau”
    • Plural forms: “portmanteaux” or “portmanteaus”
  • Verb Agreement with “Portmanteau”
    • Subject of the sentence: Verb is singular
    • Verb form depends on the context of use
Definition of Portmanteau

A portmanteau, as a linguistic phenomenon, refers to the amalgamation of two or more lexical units or morphemes, resulting in a new word form. It involves the combination of both the sounds and meanings of the constituent words, thereby creating a novel lexical entity. This literary device serves as a means of linguistic condensation, enabling the concise expression of complex ideas by merging linguistic elements into a single cohesive unit.

Types of Portmanteaus

Different types of portmanteau words can be created by blending two or more words. Here are some common types of portmanteaus:

TypeDefinitionExample
BlendsCreated by blending the sounds and meanings of two or more words.“brunch” (breakfast + lunch)
Compound BlendsCombining two or more words, where each word retains its original meaning.“spork” (spoon + fork)
Alphabet BlendsCombines two words by taking the initial letter(s) from one word and combining it with the remaining letters from another word.“sitcom” (situation + comedy)
Sound-alike BlendsCombining words that have similar sounds or phonetic patterns.“fantabulous” (fantastic + fabulous)
BackronymsCombining a word with an acronym created specifically to fit that word.“spork” (spoon + fork)
Clipping and BlendsCombining a clipped (shortened) word with another word to create a new word.“brunch” (breakfast + lunch)
Phonetic BlendsCombining words based on their phonetic sounds or rhyming patterns.“puggle” (pug + beagle)
Semantic BlendsCombining words based on their semantic or meaning-related characteristics.“infotainment” (information + entertainment)
ContractionsCombining and contracting two words, typically by omitting some letters or sounds.“can’t” (cannot)
Acronyms as PortmanteausUsing acronyms by combining the initial letters of multiple words.“NATO” (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)
Proper Name BlendsCombining the names of individuals to create a new name.“Brangelina” (Brad Pitt + Angelina Jolie)
Onomatopoeic BlendsCombining words that imitate or resemble the sounds they describe.“buzzword” (buzz + word)
Language BlendsCombining words from different languages.“Spanglish” (Spanish + English)
Technological BlendsCombining words related to technology or digital concepts.“cyborg” (cybernetic + organism)
Brand BlendsCombining parts of brand names or trademarks to form a new word.“Microsoft” (microcomputer + software)
Common Examples of Portmanteau

There are many common everyday examples of portmanteau words in the English language. Here are some examples:

  1. Brunch: A meal that combines elements of breakfast and lunch.
  2. Spork: A utensil that combines the features of a spoon and a fork.
  3. Chocoholic: A person who is addicted to chocolate.
  4. Infomercial: A television advertisement that provides information about a product.
  5. Blog: A website or online platform where an individual or group shares their thoughts and opinions.
  6. Smog: A type of air pollution that is a mixture of smoke and fog.
  7. Animatronic: A robot or mechanical device that resembles an animal and is animated by motors.
  8. Podcast: A digital audio or video program that can be downloaded or streamed online.
  9. Ginormous: Extremely large or enormous.
  10. Edutainment: A form of entertainment that is designed to educate and inform as well as entertain.

These are just a few examples of the many portmanteau words that are commonly used in everyday English.

Literary Examples of Portmanteau
ExampleReferenceTypeExplanation
ChortleLewis Carroll’s Through the Looking-GlassSound-alike BlendIn the novel, “chortle” describes the sound made by the Jabberwock when it is killed. It combines “chuckle” and “snort” to capture the creature’s unusual nature and its demise.
SmogC. P. Snow’s Lecture “The Two Cultures”Compound BlendC. P. Snow used “smog” to describe environmental pollution in cities. The word blends “smoke” and “fog” to convey the hazy and polluted atmosphere of urban environments.
SporkEdward Lear’s Poem “The Owl and the Pussycat”Compound BlendThis poem shows the characters eat with a “runcible spoon.” Though a nonsense word, “runcible” has been associated with utensils like the “spork,” combining spoon and fork functions.
BrunchGuy Beringer’s Essay “Brunch: A Plea”Compound BlendBeringer proposed “brunch” as a mealtime between breakfast and lunch in his article. The word merges “breakfast” and “lunch,” suggesting a relaxed and enjoyable start to the day.
MocktailKatherine Applegate’s Novel The One and Only IvanCompound BlendIn the children’s book, Stella the elephant makes a “mocktail” for the other animals—a non-alcoholic version of a cocktail. The word blends “mock” and “cocktail.”
FrenemyJ. K. Rowling’s Novel Harry Potter and the Goblet of FireCompound BlendBarty Crouch Jr. refers to the relationship between Harry Potter and Cedric Diggory as a “frenemy” situation. The word blends “friend” and “enemy,” describing a relationship where two people are both friends and rivals.
Suggested Readings
  1. Borg, Ruben. “Neologizing in Finnegans Wake: Beyond a Typology of the Wakean Portmanteau.” Poetics Today 28.1 (2007): 143-164.
  2. Carroll, Lewis. Through the Looking-Glass and What Alice Found There. Penguin Classics, 2015.
  3. Crystal, David. Words, Words, Words. Oxford University Press, 2007.
  4. Eco, Umberto. Semiotics and the Philosophy of Language. Indiana University Press, 1984.
  5. Lodge, David. The Art of Fiction. Penguin, 1992.
  6. Quinion, Michael. Port Out, Starboard Home: And Other Language Myths. Penguin, 2006.
  7. Shipley, Joseph T. The Origins of English Words: A Discursive Dictionary of Indo-European Roots. The Johns Hopkins University Press, 1984.
  8. Tufte, Edward R. Envisioning Information. Graphics Press, 1990.

Point of View: Using & Writing It

Point of view includes the vantage point and narrator’s position, influencing the reader’s understanding of events, characters, and the overall story.

Introduction to Point of View

Point of view in literature refers to the perspective from which a narrative is presented to the reader. It includes vantage point and narrator’s position, influencing the reader’s understanding of events, characters, and the overall story. It choice significantly impacts a narrative’s tone, reliability, and emotional engagement, making it a critical element in storytelling.

Using Point of View in Writing
StepExplanationPractical Example
1. Select the Appropriate View:Choose the point of view (first-person, second-person, or third-person) that aligns with the narrative’s requirements and the desired level of reader engagement or detachment.In a deeply personal memoir, the author employs a first-person point of view to intimately share their life experiences, allowing readers to connect with their emotions and thoughts.
2. Establish a Consistent Perspective:Maintain a consistent point throughout the narrative to avoid confusing readers and ensure a coherent reading experience.The novel consistently uses a third-person limited view, enabling readers to access the inner thoughts and feelings of the protagonist while maintaining narrative consistency.
3. Consider the Narrator’s Knowledge:Reflect on the narrator’s knowledge and their role within the story to determine how much information should be revealed to the reader.In a mystery novel, the third-person limited narrator only reveals information known to the detective protagonist, creating suspense and allowing readers to piece together the puzzle alongside the character.
4. Create Unique Character Voices:If multiple first-person narrators are used, ensure that each character’s voice is distinct, reflecting their personality and worldview, to provide authenticity and depth to the narrative.In an ensemble cast novel, each first-person narrator has a unique voice, with one character using humor, another being introspective, and yet another exhibiting a cynical outlook, giving readers insight into the diverse perspectives of the characters.
5. Use First-Person for Intimacy:Utilize first-person point of view to grant readers direct access to a character’s innermost thoughts, emotions, and experiences, fostering a profound sense of intimacy with the character.The protagonist’s first-person narration in a romance novel allows readers to intimately connect with their emotions, making them feel as though they are experiencing the highs and lows of love firsthand.
6. Employ Third-Person Limited for Depth:Opt for third-person limited perspective to delve deeply into the thoughts and emotions of a single character while maintaining some narrative distance, offering readers an intimate yet controlled perspective.In a coming-of-age story, the third-person limited narration follows the main character’s inner journey, providing insights into their growth and development while still preserving an element of objectivity.
7. Use Omniscient for Broader Insights:Choose third-person omniscient perspective when the narrative requires a narrator with knowledge of multiple characters’ thoughts and feelings, providing readers with a comprehensive view of the story’s events and characters.In a sprawling epic novel, the third-person omniscient narrator seamlessly transitions between the thoughts and experiences of various characters, offering readers a panoramic understanding of the interconnected lives and events within the story’s rich tapestry.
8. Experiment with Unreliable Narrators:Employ unreliable narrators to add complexity and intrigue to the narrative, prompting readers to question the narrator’s credibility and engage with the story on a deeper level.The protagonist in a psychological thriller serves as an unreliable narrator, blurring the lines between reality and delusion, inviting readers to unravel the mystery while questioning the narrator’s version of events.
9. Explore Second-Person for Engagement:Experiment with second-person point of view to directly engage readers, making them active participants in the story or providing a unique and immersive perspective.A choose-your-own-adventure book employs second-person narration, placing readers in the protagonist’s shoes and allowing them to make critical decisions that shape the course of the story, creating a highly interactive reading experience.
10. Understand the Impact on Reader Perception:Be mindful that the chosen point of view significantly shapes how readers perceive characters, events, and themes in the narrative. Carefully select the point of view to align with your storytelling goals and desired reader experience.Choosing a third-person objective point of view in a dystopian novel allows readers to observe the world without accessing characters’ thoughts, fostering a sense of detachment and emphasizing the bleakness of the environment, a deliberate choice to convey the story’s themes of isolation and dehumanization.

These steps provide guidance on effectively utilizing point of view in writing to enhance narrative depth, engagement, and impact.

Benefits of Point of View

Using a point of view in a work of fiction has several benefits, including:

  1. Building a connection between the reader and the character
  2. Creating suspense
  3. Developing multiple perspectives
  4. Fostering empathy
  5. Enhancing the overall narrative

Overall, using point of view can help writers create a more engaging and immersive experience for readers, while also providing opportunities for exploring different perspectives and themes.

Point of View and Literary Theory
Literary TheoryCritique of Point of ViewPractical Example 
Reader-response Literary TheoryEmphasizes the reader’s role in interpreting the text. Critiques point of view by analyzing how the reader’s interpretation is influenced by the narrator’s perspective.In a reader-response analysis of a first-person narrative, the critique would focus on how different readers interpret the story based on their own experiences, biases, and emotions, thus highlighting the subjectivity of point of view and the role of individual readers in constructing meaning. 
Feminist Literary TheoryFocuses on gender and power dynamics. Critiques point of view by examining how the narrator’s gender and perspective shape the representation of characters and experiences.Applying feminist theory to a novel, the critique of point of view would analyze how the male narrator’s perspective may privilege or marginalize female characters, perpetuating or challenging gender stereotypes and power imbalances. 
Psychoanalytic Literary TheoryEmphasizes unconscious motivations and desires. Critiques point of view by exploring the narrator’s repressed desires and how they manifest in the story.In a psychoanalytic critique, the analysis of point of view would delve into the hidden desires and unresolved conflicts reflected in the narrator’s perspective, revealing subconscious motivations and providing insight into their actions and interpretations. 
Marxist Literary TheoryFocuses on social, economic, and political contexts. Critiques point of view by examining how the narrator’s class, race, and social position influence their perspective and portrayal.Employing a Marxist critique, the analysis of point of view would scrutinize how the narrator’s social class and economic circumstances shape their worldview and representation of social relationships, exposing any biases or ideologies embedded in the narrative. 
Postcolonial Literary TheoryFocuses on the effects of colonialism and imperialism. Critiques point of view by analyzing how the narrator’s cultural background and perspective shape the representation of characters and experiences.Applying a postcolonial critique, the analysis of point of view would explore how the narrator’s cultural heritage and colonial history inform their interpretation of events and characters, shedding light on power dynamics, cultural clashes, and the influence of colonial legacies in the narrative. 

Suggested Readings

  1. Booth, Wayne C. The Rhetoric of Fiction. University of Chicago Press, 1983.
  2. Cohn, Dorrit. Transparent Minds: Narrative Modes for Presenting Consciousness in Fiction. Princeton University Press, 2008.
  3. Fludernik, Monika. The Fictions of Language and the Languages of Fiction: The Linguistic Representation of Speech and Consciousness. Routledge, 1993.
  4. Genette, Gérard. Narrative Discourse: An Essay in Method. Translated by Jane E. Lewin, Cornell University Press, 1980.
  5. Hühn, Peter et al., editors. The Living Handbook of Narratology. Hamburg University Press, 2014. www.lhn.uni-hamburg.de. Accessed 5 July 2023.
  6. Rimmon-Kenan, Shlomith. Narrative Fiction: Contemporary Poetics. 2nd ed., Routledge, 2002.
  7. Sternberg, Meir. The Poetics of Biblical Narrative: Ideological Literature and the Drama of Reading. Indiana University Press, 1987.
  8. Toolan, Michael. Narrative: A Critical Linguistic Introduction. Routledge, 2015.

Point of View: A Literary Device

“The most fatal illusion is the settled point of view. Since life is growth and motion, a fixed point of view kills anybody who has one.” Brooks Atkinson

Etymology Point of View

The term “point of view” originates from the French phrase “point de vue.” It literally means “point of sight.” It first appeared in English in the 17th century as a synonym for “opinion” or “perspective.” With time, “point of view” is used to refer to an individual’s unique perspective or position on a particular topic or issue.

Meanings of Point of View

  1. Literature: The perspective from which a story is narrated, including:
    • First person point of view: Narrated by a character within the story, using pronouns like “I” and “we.”
    • Third person limited point of view: Narrated by an external observer, focusing on the thoughts and experiences of a single character.
    • Third person omniscient: Narrated by an external observer with knowledge of all characters’ thoughts and experiences.
  2. Film and Photography: The angle or perspective from which a photographer takes a shot to capture a scene or subject.
  3. Philosophy: An individual’s subjective experience or interpretation of reality, shaped by their own beliefs, values, and experiences.
  4. Debate or Argumentation: The position or stance taken by an individual regarding a specific topic or issue.
  5. General: A particular way of looking at or interpreting something, often influenced by personal experiences, beliefs, or biases.
Definition of Point of View

It is a literary device that refers to a perspective or position of an individual about or on a particular topic, issue, or situation. It refers to a person’s subjective experience, interpretation, or understanding of reality, as well as their attitudes, beliefs, and values.

Types of Point of View

There are four major types in response to what is point of view and what are its types. They are as follows.

Type of Point of ViewExplanationExample
First person point of viewNarrated by a character within the story using “I” or “we.” Provides an intimate look into the narrator’s thoughts and feelings but can be limited to their perspective.“I walked into the room and saw the most beautiful painting I had ever seen.”
Second person point of viewUses “you” to directly address the reader or another character. Less common in literature, often used in instructional or self-help writing.“You walk into the room and see the most beautiful painting you have ever seen.”
Third-personNarrated by someone outside of the story using “he,” “she,” or “they.” Can provide an objective and omniscient perspective, but may create a distance between the reader and characters.“He walked into the room and saw the most beautiful painting he had ever seen.”
Third-person limitedLimited to the perspective of one character and only shows their thoughts and feelings.“She entered the room, mesmerized by the most beautiful painting she had ever seen.”
Third-person omniscientProvides an all-knowing perspective and can show the thoughts and feelings of multiple characters.“As they all gathered in the room, the painting left each of them in awe.”
Literary Examples of Point of View
Extract with ReferenceType of Point of View
1. From To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper LeeFirst-person
The story is told from the first-person point of view of Scout Finch, a young girl growing up in a small Southern town during the 1930s. For example, “When enough years had gone by to enable us to look back on them, we sometimes discussed the events leading to his accident.” – Scout Finch (Chapter 1)
2. From The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. SalingerFirst-person
The story is told from the first-person point of view of Holden Caulfield, a teenage boy who is struggling with adolescence and societal expectations. For example, “If you really want to hear about it, the first thing you’ll probably want to know is where I was born, and what my lousy childhood was like.” – Holden Caulfield (Chapter 1)
3. From The Great Gatsby by F. Scott FitzgeraldFirst-person
The story is told from the first-person point of view of Nick Carraway, a young man who becomes involved with the wealthy and mysterious Jay Gatsby. For example, “Gatsby, who represented everything for which I have an unaffected scorn.” – Nick Carraway (Chapter 1)
4. From Wuthering Heights by Emily BronteFirst-person
The story is told from the first-person point of view of Nelly Dean, a servant who witnesses the tumultuous relationship between Heathcliff and Catherine. For example, “I wish I were a girl again, half savage and hardy, and free.” – Nelly Dean (Chapter 1)
5. From Beloved by Toni MorrisonThird-person  omniscient
The story is told from the third-person omniscient point of view, providing insight into the thoughts and feelings of various characters, including Sethe and her daughter Beloved. For example, “There is a loneliness that can be rocked. Arms crossed, knees drawn up, holding, holding on, this motion, unlike a ship’s, smooths and contains the rocker.” (Chapter 1)

These examples demonstrate the different ways that point of view can impact the reader’s understanding of the narrative, characters, and themes of a literary work.

Suggested Readings
  1. Booth, Wayne C. The Rhetoric of Fiction. University of Chicago Press, 1983.
  2. Cohn, Dorrit. Transparent Minds: Narrative Modes for Presenting Consciousness in Fiction. Princeton University Press, 2008.
  3. Fludernik, Monika. The Fictions of Language and the Languages of Fiction: The Linguistic Representation of Speech and Consciousness. Routledge, 1993.
  4. Genette, Gérard. Narrative Discourse: An Essay in Method. Translated by Jane E. Lewin, Cornell University Press, 1980.
  5. Hühn, Peter et al., editors. The Living Handbook of Narratology. Hamburg University Press, 2014. www.lhn.uni-hamburg.de. Accessed 5 July 2023.
  6. Rimmon-Kenan, Shlomith. Narrative Fiction: Contemporary Poetics. 2nd ed., Routledge, 2002.
  7. Sternberg, Meir. The Poetics of Biblical Narrative: Ideological Literature and the Drama of Reading. Indiana University Press, 1987.
  8. Toolan, Michael. Narrative: A Critical Linguistic Introduction. Routledge, 2015.
You may read more on Literary Devices below:

Personification: Using and Critiquing

Personification is a literary device where human qualities or characteristics are attributed to non-human entities or objects.

Introduction to Personification

Personification is a literary device where human qualities or characteristics are attributed to non-human entities or objects.

Literary Examples of Personification
ReferenceExtractExplanation of Personification
1. “The Sun Rising” by John Donne“Busy old fool, unruly Sun, Why dost thou thus, Through windows, and through curtains call on us?”The Sun is personified as a “busy old fool” interrupting lovers, as if it were a nosy person disturbing their privacy.
2. “The Raven” by Edgar Allan Poe“And the Raven, never flitting, still is sitting, still is sitting On the pallid bust of Pallas just above my chamber door.”The Raven is personified as a persistent, ominous visitor, sitting as if it were a mournful presence.
3. “The Wind” by Christina Rossetti“Who has seen the wind? Neither I nor you: But when the leaves hang trembling, The wind is passing through.”The wind is personified as an unseen, mysterious force, perceived only through its effects on the trembling leaves.
4. Macbeth by William Shakespeare“Come, you spirits That tend on mortal thoughts, unsex me here, And fill me from the crown to the toe top-full Of direst cruelty.”Lady Macbeth personifies “spirits” that influence her thoughts, asking them to change her nature, highlighting her ambition.
5. “The Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein“And the tree was happy. But not really.”The tree is personified as capable of happiness but ultimately feeling unfulfilled after giving everything to the boy.
6. “The Waste Land” by T.S. Eliot“A heap of broken images, where the sun beats, And the dead tree gives no shelter, the cricket no relief, And the dry stone no sound of water.”The dead tree and cricket are personified as experiencing discomfort in the desolate landscape, mirroring the speaker’s suffering.

These examples illustrate the diverse ways in which personification is used in literature to attribute human qualities and emotions to non-human entities, enhancing the depth and meaning of the text.

How to Create Personification

Creating personification is a fun and creative way to add depth and meaning to your writing. Here are some steps to follow to create personification:

  1. Identify Objective or Idea: Choose an object or idea that you want to give human-like qualities to.
  2. Determine Qualities of Object or Idea: Decide what specific human-like qualities you want to give to the object or idea.
  3. Use Descriptive Language: Use descriptive language to create an image in the reader’s mind. Utilize sensory details like sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste to make the personification more vivid.
  4. Be consistent: Once you have created the personification, be consistent in using it throughout your writing. This will help your readers understand and connect with the object or idea you have personified.
  5. Edit and revise: After you have written it, read it over and make sure it flows well with the rest of your writing. Revise as needed to ensure that the personification enhances your writing and adds meaning.
  6. Remember, personification is a literary device that can be used to add depth and meaning to your writing, so have fun with it and experiment with different ideas and descriptions.
Benefits of Personification

There are several benefits of using it in writing, including:

  1. Breathe Life into Words: Unleashing Creativity: Transform your writing from mundane to magical as personification grants you the power to infuse non-human entities with vitality and charm, making your compositions a captivating voyage of imaginative expression.
  2. Unveiling the Veiled: Illuminating Complex Ideas: Embrace the allure of personification as it unveils a gateway to comprehension, rendering intricate and abstract concepts relatable, enabling readers to grasp profound ideas with ease.
  3. Unveiling Depth: Unleashing Profound Narratives: Embark on a literary adventure of profound proportions, for personification bestows inanimate objects and abstract notions with human-like attributes, breathing an unprecedented dimension of intrigue and contemplation into your prose.
  4. The Artistry of Personification: Painting Pictures of Imagination: Master the art of literary imagery using this device, skillfully crafting vibrant and indelible mental pictures by endowing objects and ideas with human characteristics that resonate within the reader’s mind.
  5. Forging Emotional Bonds: Empowering Words: Experience the emotional alchemy of personification, forging powerful connections between readers and the personified elements, evoking empathy and understanding that lingers long after the last word is read.

In short, it is a powerful literary device that enhances the impact of your writing in many ways, making it more creative, engaging, and memorable.

Personification and Literary Theory
Literary TheoryCritique of PersonificationExample
New CriticismPersonification contributes to the overall meaning of the work by developing themes and motifs.Example: In “The Raven” by Edgar Allan Poe, the personification of the Raven as a harbinger of death intensifies the theme of grief and loss throughout the poem.
Psychoanalytic CriticismPersonification reflects the author’s unconscious desires or characters’ psychological states.Example: In The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson, the personification of Mr. Hyde represents the repressed dark desires of Dr. Jekyll’s subconscious mind.
Marxist CriticismPersonification reinforces or critiques dominant social hierarchies.Example: In George Orwell’s Animal Farm, the personification of the ruling pigs as oppressive leaders represents the exploitation of power in a totalitarian society, reflecting Marxist critique of the ruling class.
Feminist CriticismPersonification reinforces or challenges traditional gender roles and reflects the author’s attitudes towards women.Example: In “The Yellow Wallpaper” by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, here this device shown as a wallpaper as a woman trapped behind bars symbolizes the narrator’s confinement and challenges the patriarchal norms of the time.
Postcolonial CriticismPersonification reflects the colonized culture’s relationship with the colonizer and the author’s attitudes towards colonization.Example: In Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart the personification of the colonial government as a destructive force portrays the impact of colonialism on traditional African societies and critiques the colonial power structure.

Note: The examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and may not cover the entirety of the literary works’ complexities in each theoretical analysis. The interpretations may vary based on the critic’s individual perspectives and the specific literary elements being examined.

Suggested Readings
  1. Attridge, Derek, and Henry Staten. The Craft of Poetry: Dialogues on Minimal Interpretation. Routledge, 2015.
  2. Brooks, Cleanth. The Well Wrought Urn: Studies in the Structure of Poetry. Harcourt, Brace & World, 1947.
  3. De Mul, Jos. The Tragedy of Finitude: Dilthey’s Hermeneutics of Life. Yale University Press, 2004.
  4. Johnson, Mark. The Body in the Mind: The Bodily Basis of Meaning, Imagination, and Reason. University of Chicago Press, 1987.
  5. Lakoff, George, and Mark Johnson. Metaphors We Live By. University of Chicago Press, 2003.
  6. Sternberg, Meir. The Poetics of Biblical Narrative: Ideological Literature and the Drama of Reading. Indiana University Press, 1985.
  7. Turner, Mark. The Literary Mind: The Origins of Thought and Language. Oxford University Press, 1996.
You may read more on Literary Devices below:

Personification: A Literary Device

Personification is a literary device in which human characteristics are attributed to non-human things such as animals, objects, or natural phenomena.

Etymology of Personification

The term “personification” originates from the Latin word personificare. It is a combination of persona (meaning “person”) and facere (meaning “to make” or “to create”). The concept of personification has its roots in ancient rhetoric and literary traditions, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. It involves attributing human characteristics, emotions, or qualities to non-human entities or abstract concepts.

Meanings of Personification

  1. Primary Meaning of Personification: The attribution of human qualities, such as emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, to non-human entities or objects.
  2. Literary Use of Personification: Commonly employed in poetry to make abstract ideas more concrete and relatable; for instance, portraying death as a character with a specific personality and motivation.
  3. Advertising Application of Personification: Utilized in advertising to make products relatable and approachable to consumers, where a personified object like a car may be featured in ads to appeal to potential buyers.
  4. Everyday Speech: Used in everyday language to describe something using human characteristics to enhance understanding or emphasize a particular point.
Personification in Grammar

In grammar, personification is not a specific word category like a noun, verb, adjective, or adverb. Instead, personification is a literary device or figure of speech used to give human qualities or characteristics to non-human things, animals, or ideas. It is often used in writing and literature to make descriptions more vivid and engaging.

Here are the grammatical word categories you requested, along with an example of personification:

  1. Noun: A person, place, thing, or idea. Example: The sun smiled down on the children at the playground.
  2. Verb: An action or state of being. Example: The wind whispered through the trees.
  3. Adjective: A word that describes or modifies a noun. Example: The old house creaked with every step.
  4. Adverb: A word that describes or modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb. Example: The leaves rustled softly in the breeze.
Definition of Personification

Personification is a literary device in which human characteristics are attributed to non-human things such as animals, objects, or natural phenomena. This technique is often used to create a more vivid and imaginative description, as well as to evoke emotions and convey deeper meanings.

Types of Personification

There are several types of personification used in literature:

TypeDefinitionExample from Literature
AnthropomorphismThis type of personification attributes human-like qualities to animals such as talking or exhibiting human emotions.For example in Aesop’s fables, animals are often portrayed with human characteristics such as the wise and talking tortoise in “The Tortoise and the Hare.”
Pathetic FallacyThis type of personification attributes human emotions and actions to inanimate objects or natural phenomena such as the wind “howling” or the sun “smiling.”Emily Brontë uses pathetic fallacy in Wuthering Heights where the stormy weather mirrors the tumultuous emotions of the characters.
ZoomorphismThis type of personification attributes animal-like qualities to humans, such as calling someone a “snake” or a “lion.”In Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare, Mark Antony refers to the assassins as “honorable men” while subtly likening them to dangerous animals.
ProsopopoeiaThis type of personification involves giving a voice to an abstract concept or an object that cannot speak, such as “death” or “time.”In John Donne’s poem “Death Be Not Proud,” death is personified and addressed as if it were a living being with human emotions and vulnerabilities.
Metaphorical PersonificationThis type of personification uses a metaphor to compare a non-human thing to a human attribute or quality, such as describing a mountain as “majestic” or a storm as “angry.”In Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Raven,” the titular bird is described as a “prophet” and “thing of evil,” attributing human-like qualities to the bird.
ZoomorphismThis type of personification involves attributing animal-like characteristics or qualities to non-living things or abstract concepts, such as “a furious storm” or “a cruel wind.”In William Wordsworth’s poem “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud,” daffodils are personified as “dancing” and “tossing their heads” in the breeze.
HyperboleThis type of personification involves exaggerating the qualities or characteristics of non-human things for effect, such as “the waves roared with anger” or “the sun scorched the earth.”In Shakespeare’s play Macbeth, he uses hyperbolic personification when he says “stars, hide your fires; Let not light see my black and deep desires,” as if the stars have their own awareness and can help keep his secrets hidden.
SynecdocheThis type of personification involves using a part of an object to represent the whole, or vice versa, such as “all hands on deck” to refer to the entire crew of a ship.In Julius Caesar, when Mark Antony says “Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears,” he uses synecdoche, as “ears” represent the audience’s attention and willingness to listen.
MetonymyThis type of personification involves using a related term to represent the object or concept being personified, such as “the crown” to refer to a king or queen.In William Shakespeare’s plays, he frequently uses metonymy, like referring to the monarchy as “the crown” and the government as “the throne.”
AllegoryThis type of personification involves using characters or objects to represent abstract concepts or ideas, such as in George Orwell’s Animal Farm, where the animals represent different social classes and political ideologies.In George Orwell’s Animal Farm, the characters of Napoleon and Snowball symbolize Joseph Stalin and Leon Trotsky, respectively, and the farm’s transformation mirrors the events of the Russian Revolution and the rise of totalitarian regimes.
Suggested Readings
  1. Attridge, Derek, and Henry Staten. The Craft of Poetry: Dialogues on Minimal Interpretation. Routledge, 2015.
  2. Brooks, Cleanth. The Well Wrought Urn: Studies in the Structure of Poetry. Harcourt, Brace & World, 1947.
  3. De Mul, Jos. The Tragedy of Finitude: Dilthey’s Hermeneutics of Life. Yale University Press, 2004.
  4. Johnson, Mark. The Body in the Mind: The Bodily Basis of Meaning, Imagination, and Reason. University of Chicago Press, 1987.
  5. Lakoff, George, and Mark Johnson. Metaphors We Live By. University of Chicago Press, 2003.
  6. Sternberg, Meir. The Poetics of Biblical Narrative: Ideological Literature and the Drama of Reading. Indiana University Press, 1985.
  7. Turner, Mark. The Literary Mind: The Origins of Thought and Language. Oxford University Press, 1996.
You may read more on Literary Devices:

Pathos: How to Use and Write One

Pathos is a rhetorical and literary device employed to evoke intense emotions, particularly pity, sympathy, or empathy, in an audience.

Introduction to Pathos

Pathos is a rhetorical and literary device employed to evoke intense emotions, particularly pity, sympathy, or empathy, in an audience. It is a persuasive technique that aims to stir an emotional response in readers or listeners by presenting relatable and emotionally charged situations or narratives. Through the strategic use of vivid descriptions, storytelling, and appeals to shared human experiences, pathos enhances the overall persuasiveness and impact of written or spoken discourse.

How to Create Pathos?
StepExplanationExample
Understand Your AudienceBefore creating pathos, it is important to know your target audience. Consider the following points; Their backgrounds.Their interests.Their values.If addressing parents, focus on themes related to family, children, or personal struggles.
Choose a Relevant TopicSelect a subject or theme, having an emotional connection with your audience.If discussing challenges faced by refugees, choose a specific story of a refugee family to create empathy.
Use Descriptive LanguageUse descriptive and evocative language to paint a clear picture in your audience’s minds.Instead of saying “He was sad,” say “Tears streamed down his face as his heart shattered into a thousand pieces.”
Tell Personal StoriesShare personal experiences or anecdotes that create an emotional connection.When discussing poverty, share a personal story of someone struggling to make ends meet.
Appeal to Shared ValuesIdentify the values that connect you with your audience and frame your message accordingly.Emphasize the unfairness of a situation or the need for empathy towards marginalized communities if your audience values justice and equality.
Use Powerful ExamplesUtilize real-life examples or case studies that elicit emotions.Advocate for animal rights by sharing a story of an abused animal that has been rescued and nursed back to health.
Incorporate Rhetorical DevicesEmploy rhetorical devices to enhance the emotional impact.Engage the audience emotionally by asking rhetorical questions like, “How can we turn a blind eye to the suffering of innocent children? How can we sleep peacefully knowing their cries go unheard?”
Show Empathy and VulnerabilityDemonstrate empathy and vulnerability to connect on a deeper level.Share personal emotions, struggles, or moments of reflection related to the topic to evoke a reciprocal emotional response from the audience.
Use Visual AidsInclude visuals such as photographs, videos, or graphs that evoke emotions.Use a poignant image that conveys the emotional impact of an issue more effectively than words alone.
Practice Delivery and TimingPractice delivering your message with the right tone, pacing, and emphasis.Pay attention to timing and pause to allow emotional moments to sink in during the delivery. Effective delivery amplifies the emotional impact of your words.
Benefits of Pathos

Pathos is a powerful tool in literature. It helps writers to create emotional connections with their readers and to evoke a range of emotions, including empathy, sympathy, and sadness. Here are some of the benefits of using pathos in your writing:

  1. Emotional Connection: Pathos helps to create an emotional connection between the reader and the characters in a story. They also help the speakers to connect with the readers and audiences through emotional means.
  2. Increased Engagement: When readers are emotionally invested in a story, they are more likely to continue reading and become more deeply engaged with the plot and characters.
  3. Greater Impact: Using pathos can help to make a story more memorable and impactful by creating an emotional response in the reader. This helps ensure that the story stays with readers long after they have finished reading.
  4. Greater Understanding: When readers feel empathy and sympathy for a character, they are more likely to understand their motivations and relate to their experiences. This can help to create a deeper understanding of the story and its themes.
  5. Universal Appeal: Pathos is a universal tool that can appeal to readers of all ages and backgrounds. By evoking emotions that are common in all humans, writers create stories that resonate with a wide audience.
  6. Persuasion: Pathos helps speakers to emotionally connect with the readers and the audiences and persuade them effectively by manipulating emotions.

In fact, using pathos in literature is a highly powerful tool for writers to connect with their readers and create stories that are engaging, impactful, and memorable.

Pathos and Literary Theory

Pathos is a persuasive technique that appeals to the emotions of the readers or audiences. It is used in literature to create emotional connections with the readers, evoking sympathy or empathy for the characters, and adding depth to the themes and messages of a work. However, analyzing pathos in literary theory as a literary device is a highly tricky situation. Yet, it could be analyzed and studied using various literary theories, such as:

Literary TheoryCritique of PathosExample from Literature
Reader-Response TheoryThis theory focuses on the readers’ response to a text and how their experiences and emotions influence interpretation. Pathos could be analyzed through the readers’ emotional responses and how their personal experiences affect understanding.In the novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee, the portrayal of racial injustice elicits pathos by evoking strong emotional responses from readers who can relate their own experiences or empathize with the characters’ struggles. The readers’ emotional connection to the text influences their interpretation and response to the pathos conveyed.
Feminist TheoryFeminist theory examines literature from a gender perspective, focusing on how gender roles and stereotypes are reinforced or challenged. Pathos can be studied in how emotions associated with femininity are represented and how they shape female characters’ roles.In Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s short story “The Yellow Wallpaper,” the protagonist’s emotional descent into madness is a pathos-laden portrayal of the oppression and confinement faced by women in patriarchal societies. The use of pathos highlights the emotional toll of societal expectations and restrictions, shedding light on the feminist critique of gender roles.
Marxist TheoryMarxist theory views literature as reflecting socio-economic conditions. Pathos can be studied in how emotions convey class struggle and social inequality, as well as how they can manipulate the working class.In Charles Dickens’ novel, A Tale of Two Cities, the pathos of poverty and suffering endured by the lower classes under the oppressive ruling class is used to emphasize the social and economic disparities of the time. The emotions depicted stir empathy and solidarity among readers, highlighting the Marxist critique of the exploitative capitalist system.
Psychoanalytic TheoryPsychoanalytic theory analyzes literature through psychology’s lens, exploring characters’ inner conflicts and desires. Pathos can be studied in how emotions reveal these aspects and manipulate the reader’s emotions and desires.In Fyodor Dostoevsky’s novel, Crime and Punishment, the protagonist’s guilt-ridden conscience and emotional turmoil evoke pathos by delving into the depths of his psyche. The reader becomes emotionally engaged as they explore the protagonist’s psychological struggles, demonstrating the power of pathos to elicit a profound emotional response.
Suggested Readings
  1. Booth, Wayne C. The Rhetoric of Fiction. University of Chicago Press, 1983.
  2. Brooks, Cleanth, and Robert Penn Warren. Understanding Fiction. Prentice-Hall, 1959.
  3. Burke, Kenneth. A Rhetoric of Motives. University of California Press, 1969.
  4. Fisher, Walter R. Human Communication as Narration: Toward a Philosophy of Reason, Value, and Action. University of South Carolina Press, 1987.
  5. Olbrechts-Tyteca, Lucie, and Chaïm Perelman. The New Rhetoric: A Treatise on Argumentation. University of Notre Dame Press, 1969.
  6. Weaver, Richard M. The Ethics of Rhetoric. University of Chicago Press, 1953.