English 1 literary devices

Diction

the authors choice of specific words to create meaning, tone, mood and style

Diction example

informal-skinny formal-anorexic

Imagery

Description that appeals to the senses (sight, sound, smell, touch, taste)

Imagery example

his smile was warm and inviting like a gingerbread house in a beautiful forest.

Simile

A comparison using "like" or "as

simile example

your eyes twinkle like the stars

Metaphor

An indirect comparison of 2 similar items without key words

metaphor example

she was a stoic tree in a forest of weeds

symbol

an object or image that stands for or represents something else

symbol example

owls symbolize wisdom

Allusion

A reference to another work of literature, person, or event or a reference to the bible

Allusion example

her tears flooded around her like noahs flood

Characterization

How the author develops the personality of a character: directly or indirectly through their actions, appearance, feelings and what others say about them

Characterization example

he was kind and patient. When he spoke he sounded like the calm during a storm. As he grew he maintained his gentle nature.

setting

where and when the story takes place

setting example

1995, Calgary, 3010 4th street on a cool winter day

tone

Attitude a writer takes toward the audience, a subject, or a character

Tone example

The uncultured works of the author

authors purpose

The reason the author has for writing.

author's purpose example

Suzane Collins wrote the hunger games to convey the message of hope.