series of words or phrases that all (or almost all) start with the same sound.

when a nonhuman figure or other abstract concept or element is described as having human-like qualities or characteristics.

when a word or phrase is written multiple times, usually for the purpose of emphasis. It is often used in poetry (for purposes of rhythm as well).

The Lesson or Main idea of a Text

when a more mild or indirect word or expression is used in place of another word or phrase that is considered harsh, blunt, vulgar, or unpleasant.

a type of metaphor in which an object, idea, character, action, etc., is compared to another thing using the words "as" or "like

refers to the use of an object, figure, event, situation, or other idea in a written work to represent something else—typically a broader message or deeper meaning that differs from its literal meaning.

genre of writing that criticizes something, such as a person, behavior, belief, government, or society.

when an author makes an indirect reference to a figure, place, event, or idea originating from outside the text

when an author indirectly hints at—through things such as dialogue, description, or characters’ actions—what’s to come later on in the story

is a word (or group of words) that represents a sound and actually resembles or imitates the sound it stands for. It is often used for dramatic, realistic, or poetic effect.

when ideas, actions, or objects are described in non-literal terms. In short, it’s when an author compares one thing to another. The two things being described usually share something in common but are unalike in all other respects.

The Main Character or hero

when an author inserts a famous quotation, poem, song, or other short passage or text at the beginning of a larger text

The Place and Tome of a story

a statement that appears illogical or self-contradictory but, upon investigation, might actually be true or plausible.

an attitude of a writer toward a subject or an audience

The main rival or the hero or main character

the comparing and contrasting of two or more different (usually opposite) ideas, characters, objects, etc.

the general feeling the writer wants the audience to have. The writer can achieve this through description, setting, dialogue, and word choice.

a combination of two words that, together, express a contradictory meaning. This device is often used for emphasis, for humor, to create tension, or to illustrate a paradox (see next entry for more information on paradoxes)

when a statement is used to express an opposite meaning than the one literally expressed by it

when an author describes a scene, thing, or idea so that it appeals to our senses (taste, smell, sight, touch, or hearing). This device is often used to help the reader clearly visualize parts of the story by creating a strong mental picture.

an interruption in a narrative that depicts events that have already occurred, either before the present time or before the time at which the narration takes place.

an exaggerated statement that's not meant to be taken literally by the reader. It is often used for comedic effect and/or emphasis