Categories
Literature

A better understanding of Figurative Language in Literature

Figurative language in literature enhances the depth and richness of a text by implying meanings beyond the literal words. This connotative language invites readers to explore deeper interpretations and emotions, often evoking imagery and symbolism. Unlike denotative language, which communicates clear and direct meanings, figurative language relies on metaphor, simile, and other literary devices to convey abstract concepts. By using figurative language, authors create a more engaging and thought-provoking experience for the reader.

Hence, for the interpretation to obtain meaning in any literary work, it has to be done through;

  1. Association
  2. Context
  3. Impact

Figurative language includes the following;

  1. Riddles
  2. Idioms
  3. Figures of speech
  4. Proverbs
  5. Imagery
Figurative Language Photo

In literature, a riddle is a type of puzzle or enigmatic statement that requires creative and critical thinking to solve. It often involves a question or description that has a hidden meaning, challenging the reader or listener to decipher its true intent. Riddles are used to engage the audience, encourage deeper thought, and can be a playful yet intellectual exercise. They appear in various literary works, from ancient texts and folklore to modern novels and poetry, serving to add layers of mystery and intrigue. Here are three examples of riddles:

  1. “I speak without a mouth and hear without ears. I have no body, but I come alive with the wind. What am I?” (Answer: An echo)
  2. “I’m light as a feather, yet the strongest man can’t hold me for much more than a minute. What am I?” (Answer: Breath)
  3. “I have keys but no locks. I have space but no room. You can enter, but you can’t go outside. What am I?” (Answer: A keyboard)

In literature, idioms are phrases or expressions that have figurative meanings different from their literal interpretations, often rooted in cultural or historical context. These expressions add depth, color, and relatability to the text, enhancing the reader’s engagement by invoking shared knowledge or common experiences. Idioms can convey complex ideas succinctly and often contribute to character development, setting the tone, or emphasizing themes. For example:

  1. “break the ice” means to initiate conversation in a social setting,
  2. “kick the bucket” is a colloquial way to refer to someone dying,
  3. “spill the beans” implies revealing a secret and
  4. “under the weather” describes feeling ill or unwell.

Figures of speech are literary devices that use language to compare or represent one thing in terms of another, often to create vivid imagery or to emphasize particular qualities. These devices include metaphors, similes, and personifications, where a direct comparison, like “time is a thief,” or a resemblance, such as “as brave as a lion,” adds depth and meaning to the text. By employing figures of speech, writers can convey complex ideas more effectively and evoke stronger emotional responses from their readers. There are many figures of speech in literature; below are some of them;

  1. Simile
  2. Metaphor
  3. Symbolism
  4. Personification
  5. Hyperbole
  6. Euphemism
  7. Metonymy
  8. Irony
  9. Satire
  10. Sarcasm
  11. Onomatopoeia
  12. Depersonification
  13. Apostrophe
  14. Paradox
  15. Allusion
  16. Synecdoche
  17. Oxymoron
  18. Allegory
  19. Understatement

Simile

Similes are comparisons of two unlike things using conjunctions. They are indirect relationships in which one thing or idea is expressed as being similar to another. Similes usually contain the words “like” or “as,” but not always.

  For example;

  1. As busy as a bee – This simile compares someone who is very busy and active to a bee, known for its industrious nature.
  2. Her smile was as bright as the sun – This simile likens the brightness and warmth of a person’s smile to the sun.
  3. He fought like a lion – This simile describes someone’s bravery and strength in a fight, comparing them to the fierce and powerful lion.

Metaphor

The figure of speech directly compares two, unlike things without using conjunctions. For example;

  1. Time is a thief – This metaphor suggests that time steals moments from our lives, emphasizing the fleeting nature of time and its impact on our experiences.
  2. The world is a stage – This metaphor compares the world to a stage, implying that life is a performance and people are actors playing their parts.

Symbolism

Symbolism is the use of specific symbols, ideas, objects, or events to represent/suggest or stand for something else. For example;

  1. The dove as a symbol of peace – In literature and various cultures, the dove is often used to represent peace, tranquility, and reconciliation.
  2. The green light in “The Great Gatsby” – In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, the green light at the end of Daisy’s dock symbolizes Gatsby’s hopes and dreams for the future, as well as the broader theme of the American Dream.
  3. The raven in Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Raven” – The raven in this poem symbolizes death and mourning, serving as a constant reminder of the narrator’s sorrow and loss.

Personification

It is the giving of attributes to inanimate that they do not deserve (inanimate means non-animals, e.g., stones, trees, etc.) or

This is a figure of speech that gives or endows objects, animals, ideas, or things the ability to do things like human beings.

For example;

  1. Hyena said, let me eat
  2. All the birds sang sorrowfully
  3. The mountain rose majestically

Hyperbole/overstatement

is a figure of speech that involves an exaggeration of things, ideas or events. For example;

  1. “I’m so hungry I could eat a horse.” – This hyperbole exaggerates the speaker’s hunger to an extreme degree, emphasizing how very hungry they feel.
  2. “I’ve told you a million times.” – This hyperbole exaggerates the number of times something has been said, emphasizing the speaker’s frustration.
  3. “He runs faster than the wind” – This hyperbole exaggerates a person’s running speed, suggesting they are extraordinarily fast.

Euphemism

is a figure of speech that is used to reduce the harshness of words that could be spoken in public. For example;

  1. “Passed away” instead of “died” – This euphemism is often used to soften the harsh reality of death.
  2. “Economical with the truth” instead of “lying” – This phrase is used to imply that someone is not being completely honest without directly accusing them of lying.
  3. “Let go” instead of “fired” – This euphemism is used to make the act of terminating someone’s employment sound less harsh.
  4. “Senior citizen” instead of “old person” – This phrase is used to show respect and politeness when referring to older individuals.

Metonymy

This is a figure of speech characterized by the substitution of one item closely related to another. For example;

  1. “The White House issued a statement.” – Here, “The White House” is used as a metonymy for the President and their administration, representing the executive branch of the U.S. government.
  2. “The pen is mightier than the sword” – In this phrase, “the pen” represents writing or diplomacy, and “the sword” represents military force or violence, using metonymy to convey the power of communication over warfare.

Irony

Irony is the figure of speech that tells/speaks the opposite of what is meant to be. It is where an event that occurs is unexpected and absurd or mocking in opposition to what is expected or appropriate. For example;

  1. A fire station burns down – This is situational irony because one would expect a fire station, a place designed to combat fires, to be the least likely place to burn down.
  2. A traffic cop gets his license suspended for unpaid parking tickets – This is ironic because the very person responsible for enforcing traffic laws is found guilty of violating them.

Satire

It is a figure of speech or literary term that uses humor or wit to ridicule human vices, follies, or weaknesses. It is used to improve human institutions or humanity. Some examples are:

  1. “Gulliver’s Travels” by Jonathan Swift – This novel satirizes various aspects of human nature, society, and politics through the adventures of Lemuel Gulliver, who encounters bizarre and absurd societies that reflect and critique contemporary issues.
  2. “The Daily Show” with Trevor Noah – This television program uses humor and irony to satirize current events, politics, and media, often highlighting the absurdities and contradictions in public discourse and governmental actions.
  3. “The Importance of Being Earnest” by Oscar Wilde – This play satirizes the social conventions, hypocrisies, and trivialities of the Victorian upper class, using wit and irony to expose the superficiality of societal norms and behaviors.

Sarcasm

This is a figure of speech that uses language and inflicting, wounding as well as tormenting a person. For example;

  1. “Oh great, another rainy day. Just what I needed.” – This sarcastic remark implies the speaker is frustrated by the rain, even though the words suggest they are pleased.
  2. “Nice job, Einstein,” said someone who has made a simple mistake – This sarcastic comment ironically praises someone by comparing them to the genius Albert Einstein when in fact, they have done something foolish.
  3. “Yeah, because staying up all night before an exam is such a brilliant idea,” said someone who procrastinated studying – This sarcastic statement mocks the poor decision to stay up all night instead of preparing in a timely manner.

Onomatopoeia

Onomatopoeia refers to the formation of words, which refers to the sounds produced by the originator of the words. For example;

  1. “Buzz” – This word imitates the sound of a bee or other insects.
  2. “Splash” – This word represents the sound of something hitting the water.
  3. “Bang” – This word mimics the sound of a loud explosion or a gunshot.

Depersonification

This is a figure of speech that gives a human being the inanimate (non-human) characteristics or behavior. For example;

  1. “He was a machine, working tirelessly without any sign of fatigue.” – This description likens a human to a machine, emphasizing their relentless and mechanical work ethic.
  2. “She felt like a cog in the wheel, just another part of the system.” – This phrase dehumanizes a person by comparing them to a mere mechanical part, highlighting their lack of individuality within a larger organization.
  3. “In the crowd, he felt like a mere shadow, unnoticed and insignificant.” – This expression describes a person as a shadow, suggesting a lack of presence or importance.

Apostrophe

This is an explanation in which a person is addressing an absence or dead human being or a non-human creature as if they can hear or reply. For example;

  1. “O Death, where is thy sting?” – In this example, the speaker addresses Death directly, personifying it and questioning its power.
  2. “Twinkle, twinkle, little star, how I wonder what you are!” – The speaker addresses the star, treating it as if it could respond to their curiosity.
  3. “O, Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?” – In Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” Juliet addresses Romeo even though he is not present, expressing her longing and confusion.

Paradox

This is a contradictory statement that has some truth when interpreted, where a situation is created that cannot possibly exist because different elements of it cancel each other out.

  1. “Less is more.” – This paradoxical statement suggests that simplicity can lead to greater impact or effectiveness, even though “less” and “more” are opposites.
  2. “I must be cruel to be kind.” – In Shakespeare’s “Hamlet,” this statement implies that harsh actions can sometimes be necessary to achieve a benevolent outcome.
  3. “The beginning of the end.” – This phrase indicates that the start of something is simultaneously leading to its conclusion, combining contradictory ideas.
  4. “This is the only constant.” – This statement suggests that change, which is typically considered variable and unpredictable, is actually the only thing that consistently occurs.

Allusion

Allusion is the comparison of an ordinary person or event with a past famous or notorious person or event. For example;

  1. “He has the Midas touch.” – This allusion refers to King Midas from Greek mythology, who could turn everything he touched into gold, implying that someone has a talent for making money or achieving success.
  2. “She met her Waterloo.” – This allusion references the Battle of Waterloo, where Napoleon was defeated, suggesting that someone has encountered a significant and decisive defeat.
  3. “Don’t be a Scrooge.” – This allusion refers to Ebenezer Scrooge from Charles Dickens’s “A Christmas Carol,” implying that someone is being miserly or uncharitable.

Synecdoche

Synecdoche is the substitution of a meaning where a part of an entity is mentioned to mean the whole entity or the whole entity is mentioned to mean its part. For example;

  1. “All hands on deck” – This phrase uses “hands” to refer to the sailors or crew members, indicating that everyone is needed to help.
  2. “Nice wheels!” – Here, “wheels” refers to the entire car, not just the wheels themselves.
  3. “The White House issued a statement” – “The White House” represents the President and their administration, rather than the building itself.
  4. “He has a good head on his shoulders” – This phrase uses “head” to represent the person’s intelligence or wisdom, rather than just the physical part of the body.

Oxymoron

An oxymoron is a statement in which elements of opposite meanings are used. For example;

  1. “Deafening silence” – This oxymoron combines two contradictory terms, “deafening” (extremely loud) and “silence” (complete absence of sound), to emphasize the profound quietness of a situation.
  2. “Bittersweet” – This oxymoron merges “bitter” (having a sharp, unpleasant taste or experience) and “sweet” (pleasant or enjoyable) to describe an experience that has both positive and negative aspects simultaneously.

Allegory

Allegory is a story with two meanings, one open and direct meaning, and another indirect, hidden but intended meaning, where every aspect of a story is representative, usually symbolic, of something else, usually a larger abstract concept or essential historical/geopolitical event.

  1. “Animal Farm” by George Orwell – This novel is an allegory for the Russian Revolution and the rise of the Soviet Union, with farm animals representing key figures and groups from this historical period.
  2. “The Allegory of the Cave” by Plato – In this philosophical work, Plato describes prisoners in a cave who perceive shadows on the wall as reality, representing the journey from ignorance to enlightenment and the effects of education on human perception.
  3. “The Pilgrim’s Progress” by John Bunyan – This story is an allegory of the Christian journey of faith, depicting the protagonist, Christian, as he travels from the City of Destruction to the Celestial City, representing the path to spiritual salvation.

Understatement/litotes

This is a figure of speech that describes or represents something smaller or less significant than it really is. Consider the examples below;

  1. “It’s just a scratch,” said about a large dent in a car – This understatement downplays the severity of the damage.
  2. “He’s not too bad at cooking,” said a professional chef – This understatement modestly describes someone who is exceptionally skilled in the culinary arts.
  3. “We had a bit of rain,” said after a heavy storm or flood – This understatement minimizes the extent of the rainfall and its potential impact.

In literature, a proverb is a concise, commonly known expression that imparts wisdom or advice based on cultural experience and general truths. These short, pithy sayings often embody traditional beliefs or common sense observations, serving as a means of conveying moral lessons or practical guidelines through memorable and easily understood language. Writers incorporate proverbs to lend authenticity, cultural context, and universality to their narratives, connecting readers with shared human experiences and insights. By embedding these time-honored adages, literature not only reflects societal values but also perpetuates them across generations.

Examples of proverbs

  1. “Actions speak louder than words.” – This proverb emphasizes that what people do is more important and revealing than what they say.
  2. “The early bird catches the worm.” – This saying advises that success comes to those who prepare well and put in effort early.
  3. “A picture is worth a thousand words.” – This proverb suggests that complex ideas can be conveyed more effectively with images than with words.
  4. “You can’t judge a book by its cover.” – This proverb warns against forming opinions about something or someone based solely on appearances.

Figurative language paints a mental picture in the reader/listener’s mind when it is used.

Others also define imagery as the use of language to depict descriptive objects, activities, or even abstract concepts. Imagery, on the other hand, refers to the use of language to vividly describe something, employing words to represent and evoke sensory experiences, such as visual and auditory sensations. It also pertains to distinct and repetitive categories of visual representations, such as depictions of food and depictions of nature.

It involves mental picture language, for example,

“Her body has unusual black, like soot

With terrifying rashes,

And chronic sores.

She is getting thinner, thinner and thinner

Then a mosquito body.”

When a person reads the above verses, he/she may imagine a person who is thinner or becoming thinner than a mosquito and whose body is terribly destroyed by rashes and black scars like soot.

PRACTICAL ANALYSIS/CRITICISM OF POEMS

There are several things that you are required to consider when you are analyzing a poem. The following are important things to consider;

TOOLS:

  1. poem
  2. A dictionary
  3. The detailed checklist for analyzing poetry
THE DETAILED CHECKLIST

This is the list of procedures and technicalities to be employed/considered in poetry analysis. They include the following;

i.        The title of a poem: The title sometimes may help you get a clue about what the poem is about. It is also more helpful to the reader in predicting the content of a given poem. However, it is not necessarily that every title is capable of suggesting the content of the poem, as titles are ironical in nature.

ii.      Form/structure: this refers to how the poem is construed specifically in considering the verses and/or stanzas it contains. It may have fourteen or fewer verses, perhaps.

iii.    General message/content: this is referred to as the core message a poem contains.

iv.     Other possible themes are supplementary issues discussed in a poem. They are sometimes known as motifs.

v.       The speaker/persona: this is the one who speaks in a poem. He/she may be a passive person who only narrates about a problem/situation without him/herself being affected by it. Also, he/she can be an active person who is directly affected by the topic of discussion.

vi.     Language use/diction: This refers to the way language is used to mold a poem. This is so crucial in Literature; Language use is very influential in molding the message the artist wants to convey.  It includes the level of formality (i.e. formal or informal/standard or non-standard), figures of speech, and imagery.

vii.   Musical devices; here, a reader ought to pay much attention to issues like rhyme, rhythm, refrain, assonance, consonance, alliteration, reiteration, anadiplosis, parallelism etc.

viii. Tone/mood/attitude of the persona: Understanding tone/mood/attitude can help a reader determine the message a poet intends to convey to his/her audience.

ix.     Relevance of the poem: A reader is supposed to relate the motifs to his/her contemporary society. The poem may only be relevant if it reflects the social reality in the reader’s society.

WORKED EXAMPLES ON POEMS’ CRITICAL APPRECIATION

EAT MORE by Joe Corrie

Eat more fruit, the slogan says

More fish, more beef, more bread

But I’m on unemployment pay

My third year now, and Wed.

Also, I wonder when I will see

The slogan when I pass

The only one that would suit me

Eat more bloody grass.

CRITICAL CRITICISM

i.        Who speaks in the poem?

The one who speaks in this poem is an active person who is directly affected by unemployment and he is complaining about eating a balanced diet while he cannot afford it due to his poor financial position.

ii.      What is the tone/mood/attitude of the speaker?

The persona’s tone/mood/attitude is sadness/angry (anger) and seriousness because he is complaining about the situation of unemployment that makes him fail to afford to eat a balanced diet.

iii.    How is the poem organized (structured)?

The poem is organized into two stanzas, with four verses in each stanza.

iv.    Comment on the Language use

The Language used in a poem is ordinary or standard Language because it uses the common words. Also it follows grammatical rules like punctuation.

However, there is the use of figurative language, which includes the following;

Imagery: This can be depicted by the description of the slogan and the diet contents, specifically in the first stanza.

Figures of speech: there are a lot of figures of speech depicted in this poem, and they include;

      Symbolism, e.g., “bloody grass” to symbolize the lower class (poor) and “fish, beef and bread” to symbolize the upper class in the society (rich) as well as the balanced diet.

       Personification is vividly seen in the first verse of the first stanza as the poet says,

“Eat more fruit, the slogan says

More fish, more beef, more bread.”

v.      What is the content/general idea/topic of the poem?

The general idea/content of the poem is unemployment, which results in poverty, exploitation, protest, conflict, etc.

vi.    What are the poetic features used in this poem?

Different poetic features used in this poem include the following;

o   Rhyme: the rhymes used are; “abab” rhyming scheme in the the first stanza and “cdcd” rhymes in the second stanza/last stanza.

o   Repetition of similar sounds, e.g.

      The alliteration of “m” and “b” in the second verse of the first stanza

More fish, more beef, more bread

      Reiteration: eat, more, slogan.

      Consonance, e.g. “d” in the second and fourth stanza of the first stanza;

                     “Eat more fruit, the slogan says

                                                           More fish, more beef, more bread

                                                          But I’m on unemployment pay

                                                           My third year now and Wed.”

o   Assonance;  this is seen in the second verse of the first stanza as shown below;

                     “Eat more fruit, the slogan says

                                                         More fish, more beef, more bread

                     ————————————– ”

vii.  What is the type of this poem?

It is a lyric poem that is short and expresses strong feelings/ideas of a persona.

viii. Is the poem relevant to your contemporary society?

The poem is so relevant to our contemporary society as in most cases people in power insist the implementation of different slogans without even considering their affordability to the common people.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is figurative language?

Figurative language uses figures of speech to be more effective, persuasive, and impactful, going beyond the literal meaning of words.
Why is figurative language important in literature?

It enriches the text, evokes emotions, and creates vivid imagery, making the reading experience more engaging.
How can one identify figurative language in a text?

Look for comparisons, exaggerations, and expressions that convey meanings beyond the literal interpretation of words.
What are some common types of figurative language?

Common types include similes, metaphors, personification, hyperbole, onomatopoeia, oxymorons, idioms, alliteration, assonance, and euphemisms.
Can figurative language be used in non-fiction?

Yes, figurative language can enhance non-fiction by making complex ideas more understandable and engaging.
How does figurative language affect the reader?

It evokes emotions, creates vivid imagery, and enhances engagement with the text.


QUICK QUOTE

Approximately 250 words

Categories
Literature

FUNDAMENTALS OF LITERATURE

Etymologically, the term Literature comes from the Latin word “Litteraturae,” which means writings. In general, Literature is applied to all fields, including Philosophical and historical writings. However, in literature, it is used to designate fictional and imaginative writings such as poetry, fiction, and drama.

 Therefore, Literature is a work of art expressed in words using a Language creatively to express human realities.

Literature

IMPORTANCE OF LANGUAGE IN LITERATURE

  1. Language is very important in literature as words are used creatively as raw materials for structuring literary works.
  2. Language must always be used as a communication channel to convey the desired ideas or messages.
  3. Language sets literature apart from other artistic mediums and from everyday works.

The History of Literature

Ancient Literature: The origins of literature can be traced back to ancient civilizations. The Epic of Gilgamesh, one of the oldest known works, dates back to ancient Mesopotamia. Similarly, ancient Egyptian, Indian, Chinese, and Greek literature laid the foundations for many literary traditions. These early works often explored themes of heroism, morality, and the divine, using poetry and prose to convey stories and philosophical ideas.

Medieval Literature: During the medieval period, literature was dominated by religious themes and texts. Works such as “Beowulf” and “The Divine Comedy” reflect the values and beliefs of their time. The use of vernacular languages became more common, broadening the audience for literary works beyond the educated elite who understood Latin.

Renaissance Literature: The Renaissance was a period of rebirth for literature, marked by a renewed interest in classical antiquity. Figures like William Shakespeare, Dante Alighieri, and Geoffrey Chaucer created works that explored human nature, society, and the complexities of life. This period also saw the rise of the printing press, which made literature more accessible to the masses.

Modern Literature: Modern literature, emerging in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, often broke away from traditional forms and subjects. Authors like James Joyce, Virginia Woolf, and Franz Kafka experimented with narrative techniques and themes, exploring the inner workings of the mind and the complexities of modern life. This period also saw the rise of various literary movements, each contributing to the richness of modern literary landscapes.

TYPES OF LITERATURE

Originally, there were two types of Literature, namely;

  1. Oral Literature
  2. Written Literature

ORAL LITERATURE CLASSIFICATION

This is literature presented through oral expressions. It was mostly used before the invention of writing.

TYPES OF ORAL LITERATURE

  1. The Folk Tale: This short story has been told verbally from one generation to the next, with humans serving as the primary characters in the tale.
  2. The legend: it is a narrative passed down from generation to generation, particularly one that may or may not be genuine, but it does have a historical origin or foundation.
  3. Myths: These are tales that have their roots in ancient times, particularly those that deal with concepts or beliefs concerning the genesis of objects, events, or races.
  4. Fables are a type of ethical narrative that is typically told in the form of a short story and frequently includes animals as the main protagonists.
  5. Anecdote: The majority of the time, this is a reference to the reported event that occurred in the life of a significant individual and ought to assert that there is some truth to it.
  6. Epics: These are lengthy narrative poems written in an elevated form. They depict characters of high positions in adventures by focusing on their relationship to a core heroic person and the development of episodes.
  7. Ballads: These are a type of verse that can be sung or recited, and they are distinguished by the theatrical presentation of the verse in the form of a straightforward tale.
  8. Riddles: These are enigmatic inquiries, assertions, or depictions, particularly designed to assess the ingenuity of those seeking to unravel them. For example, it walks on four legs in the morning, two legs at noon, and three legs in the evening- a human being.
  9. Proverbs: These are concise and widely recognized expressions that convey a universal truth or offer guidance. Or are compact fixed statements that imply question and answer?
  10. Idioms: These are phrases or statements that have a meaning that cannot be understood by looking at the individual words. Instead, they must be learned as a whole.

WRITTEN LITERATURE CLASSIFICATION: PROMINENT GENRES OF LITERATURE

A: PROSE/ NOVEL

A novel is a lengthy work of fiction that presents characters and actions as reflections of actual life inside a plot of varying degrees of intricacy.

FEATURES OF A NOVEL
  • It is featured by fictive narrations. Novels are characterized by their use of imaginative and fictive narratives. These stories are often created from the author’s imagination, allowing for a wide range of possibilities and creative expression.
  • It uses characters who are doers of actions or who the story evolves around them. The characters in a novel are central to the storyline, serving as the main actors driving the plot forward. These characters are usually well-developed, with distinct personalities, backgrounds, and motivations that evolve throughout the story.
  • It is written at a considerably longer length than other literature. Unlike shorter forms of literature, novels are typically lengthy, allowing for complex plots and detailed exploration of themes. This extended length allows authors to build intricate worlds and multi-faceted characters.
  • It is written in a narrative form. Novels are primarily narrative, focusing on storytelling and the unfolding of events over time. This form allows for a structured sequence of events, providing readers with a coherent and engaging reading experience.
SHORT STORIES

Collection of brief fictional narratives.

A short story is a concise prose tale that is shorter than a short novel, typically spanning twenty to thirty pages. It has a limited number of characters and typically focuses on a single important event or topic.

B: POETRY

Poetry is a form of artistic expression that elicits emotions and stimulates the imagination by skillfully using vivid and strong language. It is typically structured with a pattern of words or lines that feature a consistent and recurring emphasis or stress.

Poetry

Other descriptions of poetry

  • A work that exhibits distinctive utilization of language and rhythm, incorporating elements such as rhymes, imagery, metaphor, symbol, onomatopoeia, meter, and varied repetitions.
  • Writing is the act of expressing a focused and vivid understanding of experiences, which are carefully selected and organized in a specific structure to evoke a particular emotional reaction through their meaning, sound, and rhythm.
  • It is a literary genre that utilizes language in a distinctive manner by including numerous figurative expressions.
  • This genre is characterized by its adherence to a specific structure and meter, and it makes extensive use of figurative language while being notably concise compared to other genres.
  • It serves as a means of conveying emotions, ideas, and personal experiences through language rich in imagery and rhythmic sounds.
CHARACTERISTICS/FEATURES OF POETRY
  • It uses repetitive sounds, especially similar sounds like anadiplosis and parallelism.
  • It arouses emotions
  • It is reflective/reflects experiences
  • It is rich in figures of speech or figurative Language
  • It is rhythmical or metrical in form
  • It implies the use of lines/verses in the stanza
  • Poetry is imaginative.
  • Implies poetic license, i.e., allows grammatical errors
  • It uses concentrated/condensed Language, or it is very economical in  the amount of words

    HOW POETRY DIFFERS FROM OTHER GENRES
    1. Poetry is composed of lines that are grouped into stanzas, creating a distinct structure. In contrast, novels and other prose genres are written in paragraphs, presenting a continuous block of text.
    2. Poetry employs a more concentrated and succinct use of language, often packing significant meaning into fewer words. This economy of expression contrasts with the more expansive and descriptive language used in novels and plays.
    3. In poetry, the speaker is referred to as the persona, a voice that may not be directly identifiable. Prose works, such as novels, feature characters with specific names and identities that interact within the narrative.
    4. Poetry is inherently rhythmical, with lines often following patterns of stressed and unstressed syllables. This rhythmic quality, marked by regular beats and pauses, distinguishes it from prose’s more straightforward narrative flow.
    5. Poetry is typically richer in the use of figurative language, employing metaphors, similes, and symbolism to convey deeper meanings. This dense use of literary devices is more pronounced than in novels and plays, which may use them more sparingly.
    6. Poetry often uses language that evokes strong emotions, engaging the reader’s senses more intensely than other genres. This elevated and sensory language aims to create a more immediate and profound emotional response.
    7. Poetic forms frequently incorporate repetitive sounds, such as rhyme and refrain, adding a musical quality to the verses. This use of sound patterns is a defining feature that sets poetry apart from prose narratives.
    8. Poems are uniquely suited to be sung or recited aloud, emphasizing their auditory appeal. While novels and plays are primarily read or performed as dialogues, poetry’s composition lends itself to oral presentation.
    9. Poetry often invites deeper reflection, encouraging readers to ponder the underlying themes and emotions. This introspective quality is more pronounced in poetry than in the more plot-driven narratives of novels and plays.
    10. Poets frequently employ poetic license, allowing them to bend conventional rules of grammar and syntax for artistic effect. This flexibility contrasts with the stricter adherence to language rules typically found in prose genres.
      TERMS USED IN POETRY/POETIC TERMS
      • Poet(ess): A poet or poetess is someone who crafts poems, weaving words into structured or free-form verses to express emotions, tell stories, or convey deep meanings. Their work often reflects personal insights, societal observations, or imaginative worlds.
      • Persona: The persona is the voice or speaker within a poem, presenting the thoughts, feelings, or narrative to the reader. This voice is not necessarily the poet’s own but rather a crafted perspective that guides the poem’s message.
      • Poetic License: Poetic license allows poets to intentionally deviate from standard grammatical rules or conventions to achieve a particular effect. This creative freedom enables them to enhance the poem’s rhythm, rhyme, or meaning.
      • Verse: A verse is a single line of poetry, serving as the building block of a poem’s structure. Each verse contributes to the overall rhythm, tone, and meaning of the poem.
      • Stanza: A stanza is a grouping of verses that together form a cohesive unit within a poem, often separated by a blank line. Stanzas function similarly to paragraphs in prose, organizing ideas and contributing to the poem’s structure.
      • Rhyme: Rhyme involves the repetition of similar sounds, typically at the end of verses, creating a musical quality in the poem. This technique can enhance the poem’s aesthetic appeal and memorability.
      • Rhythm: Rhythm in poetry is the pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables, creating a musical beat and flow. This patterned cadence can evoke different emotions and enhance the reading experience.
      • Refrain: A refrain is the repeated line or group of lines that recur at the end of stanzas, adding emphasis and cohesion to the poem. This repetition can reinforce the central theme or create a rhythmic anchor.
      • Alliteration: Alliteration is the repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words within the same verse. This stylistic device can add a musical quality and enhance the poem’s imagery.
      • Consonance: Consonance is the repetition of similar consonant sounds, often at the end of verses or within words, contributing to the poem’s rhythm and musicality. It can create a sense of harmony or tension depending on the context.
      • Assonance: Assonance is the repetition of similar vowel sounds within a verse, adding to the poem’s auditory appeal. This technique can create internal rhyming and enhance the mood and flow of the poem.
      • Reiteration: Reiteration is the repetition of the same word or phrase within a poem to emphasize a particular idea or theme. This technique can create a sense of urgency, rhythm, or focus.
      • Parallelism: Parallelism involves repeating similar or identical language, structures, events, or ideas in different parts of a text, creating a sense of symmetry and balance. This technique can reinforce themes and enhance the poem’s overall coherence.
      • Tone: The tone of a poem refers to the quality of sound or attitude expressed by the persona, shaping how the poem is perceived. It can range from joyful and celebratory to sombre and reflective.
      • Mood: Mood is the emotional atmosphere created by the poem, influencing the reader’s emotional response. It can evoke feelings such as sympathy, anger, regret, or sadness and is shaped by the poem’s language, setting, and imagery.
      • Attitude: Attitude reflects the poet’s or persona’s perspective or stance toward the subject of the poem. It is conveyed through the choice of words, tone, and overall approach to the theme.
      FORMS OF POETRY

      There are two types of poetry as the broader category according to perspectives/views; these are;

      1. Traditional poetry
      2. Modern poetry
      TRADITIONAL POETRY

      These are poems that adhere to specific laws or concepts, such as having an equal number of verses in each stanza and following a consistent rhyming pattern. Poetry written in a closed form is characterized by the presence of stringent rules or principles that regulate its structure and composition.

      MODERN POETRY

      Free verse is a type of poetry that disregards established norms and concepts, allowing for an open and unrestricted form of writing. Nevertheless, poetry can be classified into various categories based on its form (structure) and substance. In this category, we have three primary classifications of poetry, which are:

      • Narrative poetry
      • Lyric or lyrical poetry
      • Dramatic poetry
             I. NARRATIVE POEMS

      These are kinds of poems that tell a story that is presented in the form of narrating a story. We have many poems (classifications) that belong to this category, such as descriptive, didactic, epic, ballad, etc.

      DESCRIPTIVE POEMS:

      These are specific categories of narrative poetry and are presented by describing/giving features/characteristics of something/things.

      DIDACTIC POEMS:

      Are those poems that give instructions and are composed for educative purposes/issues? For example, “Front Line” by George Shea

      EPIC POEMS:

      These are gland heroic poems that try to narrate about phenomena or events of heroes/heroic figures in a given society. Or it is a form of poem that recounts/tells accomplishment of a heroic figure. It includes expansive setting, superhuman feats, gods and supernatural being.

      BALLAD:

      It is a poem where it involves more than oneself/personal in conversation or speaking in turn.

      These are some of narrative poetry, as there are others that are reflective, expressive, etc.

          II.  LYRICAL POEMS:

      These are poems that express the strong feelings/emotions of the speaker or persona. There are three classifications of lyrical poems, which are ode, elegy and sonnet.

      ODE: A poem that expresses serious issues/addresses a person or celebration of events.

      ELEGY: This is a poem that expresses sorrowful or sad strong feelings, especially on the death of a close person. Or is a type of poem in which a poet mourns the death of a specific person. For example, “The Funeral of Martin Luther King Jr.” by Nikki Glovanni.

      SONNET: A poem that expresses feelings using fourteen verses/ is a fourteen-line poem normally with distinctive rhyme skills and a metrical pattern.  “If We Must Die,” “Merry-go-round,” and “The Strange Wind” are good examples of sonnet poems.

       III. DRAMATIC POETRY:

      It is a kind of poetry that involves a dramatic narrative form and uses more than oneself/persona. There are two specifications of dramatic poetry;

      MONOLOGUE: Refer to poems that are under this category that involve one speaker who is in charge of more than him/herself. E.g. “Song of Lawino”

      DIALOGUE: Refer to poems which are involving more than one speaker or persona.

      DRAMA/PLAY: A performance including actors, whether in a theater, on television, or on the radio, is commonly known as a scripted production. To effectively entertain and educate others, the portrayal of human nature should properly and convincingly capture the range of emotions, qualities, and changes in circumstances that individuals go through.

      Dramatic representation entails the meticulous reproduction of complete actions intended to grab human attention. This is achieved through a sequence of interconnected events that are enacted and communicated through speech and symbolic portrayals of real-life situations and circumstances. A performance that exclusively utilizes gestures rather than verbal communication is known as a pantomime.

      ELEMENTS OF DRAMA/PLAY
      1. Setting: Setting pertains to the specific geographical region where the literary work unfolds, whereas time denotes the chronological period during which the story is situated. Usually, the environment is either based on reality or created in the imagination. The context can be either clearly defined (such as New York City in 1930) or subject to varying interpretations (such as a large urban area during a time of economic difficulty). It also directly relates to a portrayal of such.
      2. Characterization/dramatic personage: it is the process of carefully choosing and shaping characters, actors, and actresses in order to communicate the intended message effectively. In an alternative approach, the author uses this strategy to convey to the reader diverse facets of a character’s personality, life background, principles, physical attributes, and more. Furthermore, it directly relates to a specific portrayal of that.
      3. Plot: it is the intentional organization and sequence of events or occurrences in a story or play. A superstructure pertains to the whole framework of a literary composition, specifically a novel or a drama/play. The plot of a story refers to the deliberate arrangement and sequence of events carefully crafted by the author to achieve a particular aesthetic or artistic effect. The arrangement might be either chronological or achronological, depending on the author’s preference.
      4. Audience: these people receive the desired message through listening, reading, observing, or watching a drama/play.
      5. Diction: this is the choice and use of words in a literary work.
      6. Style/technique refers to the way a literary work is structured/presented by the author/playwright.
      7. Theme: it refers to the central concept or underlying message that is communicated through a written work. A theme is typically presented as a comprehensive sentence, while a notion conveyed as a single word or fragmentary phrase is referred to as a motif.
      8. Motif: An idea or image that appears again and holds significant importance. A motif is distinct from a theme in that it can be conveyed as a single word or incomplete phrase, whereas a topic typically needs to be presented as a complete sentence.
      DIFFERENCES BETWEEN DRAMA AND PLAY
      Key AspectsDrama Play
      SettingUses a physical settingShaped by words
      ActionsUses actual actions as actedUses words to shape actions
      AudienceHas more audience as it involves both illiterate and literate peopleTypically has fewer audiences, mostly literate individuals
      OriginStarted before playDeveloped later as a literary form
      Story ComprehensionEasier to grasp the storyThe story might be less immediately clear without the visual and auditory elements of drama.
      LanguagePresented in spoken languageAlways in written language
      CharactersUses real characters (actors)Uses imaginary characters shaped by words
      DIFFERENCES BETWEEN DRAMA AND PLAY
      TYPES OF PLAY/DRAMA

      There are about four types of drama/play, but the two types are the major ones of the four.

      TRAGEDY:

      Tragedy is a kind of drama characterized by the gravity of deeds and circumstances, which ultimately result in the hero’s life being at risk, leading to their death or solitude. For example, the plays “An Enemy of the People” and “Death of a Salesman.”

      COMEDY:

      It is a form of drama that employs comedic actions to elicit laughter from the audience. Typically, it is distinguished by cases of mistaken identity and concludes with a positive outcome.

      Tragicomedy:

      The story blends elements of both seriousness and humor, yet the protagonist always manages to survive perilous circumstances.

      MELO DRAMA:

      This entails the incorporation of highly exaggerated actions and musical noises as key components of the performance intended to provide entertainment.

      ELEMENTS OF LITERATURE

      1.      FORM

      2.      CONTENTS

      FORM;

      It consists of the following:

      a.       Setting

      b.      Style

      c.       Plot

      d.      Diction

      e.       Linguistic techniques

      f.       Characterization

      STYLE

      Style, in its conventional interpretation, refers to a systematic approach or technique employed in the execution of a task, particularly within the realms of art or science. In the context of a literary piece, technique or style pertains to the manner in which the work has been organized and presented. Various styles are employed in the presentation of literary works, a few of which are outlined below:

      Flashback/analepsis: a scene inserted into the narrative that shifts the plot back in time from its current place. Furthermore, flashbacks can be characterised as a non-linear regression to a previous point in time, when an event that occurred earlier in the chronology is recounted later in the text. Generally, a flashback is referred to as the insertion of an earlier event into the chronological structure of a novel, motion picture, play and film.

      Oral traditional style/straightforward: this is characterised by a basic narrative structure, where a story is presented in a linear fashion, starting from the beginning, progressing through the middle, and concluding at the end. It is a frequently employed and antiquated literary technique, distinct from others.

      Overshadowing/prolepsis is a literary method that entails providing a glimpse into the composition of a piece of art and subsequently offering more elaborate information as the work unfolds.

      PLOT

      This pertains to the arrangement (organization) of events within a narrative or play. It is evident in conflicts that are either physical, moral, or personal. a plot is the actions; a story is the occurrences. The plot is a sequence of events and interplays within a narrative that is meticulously arranged to achieve the author’s intended aesthetic or artistic effect. It is constructed using the following:

      1. Exposition: The exposition is the part of the story where the setting and characters are introduced. It provides the background information needed to understand the plot.
      2. Imposing Problem/Conflict: This is the moment when the writer begins to introduce a problem or conflict between characters or ideas. It sets the stage for the unfolding drama and challenges the characters will face.
      3. Rising Action: The rising action includes events and actions that build up from the initial conflict, leading to more complications. This part of the story develops the plot and heightens tension.
      4. Climax: The climax is the most exciting part of the story, where the main conflict reaches its highest point. It is the turning point where the outcome becomes clear, often involving a dramatic event.
      5. Falling Action: During the falling action, the story begins to wind down, and the tension decreases. The consequences of the climax unfold, leading towards the resolution.
      6. Resolution/Denouement: The resolution is where the problems in the story are resolved, and the story concludes. It ties up loose ends and provides closure to the narrative.

      CHARACTERIZATION

      This is the artistic technique used by writers to create and develop characters in a story. Through careful description, dialogue, and action, the author makes these imaginary persons feel real and believable to the reader. Effective characterization helps readers connect with the characters, understanding their motivations, emotions, and personalities as if they were real people.

      How do we determine characters?

      Behaviour, trait or features

        1. His/her words, what he/she speaks/says
        2. His/her actions/deeds, what he/she does
        3. His/her name
        4. What is said by other characters to another
        5. His/her own monologue
        6. What he/she thinks in an armchair
        7. Physical movement
        8. Psychological setup/background, which is the mental pictures of that character
        9. Moral aspects
        TYPES OF CHARACTERS
        1. Protagonist characters: These characters serve as representatives of the majority and advocate for the interests of society.
        2. Antagonist characters: These characters are known for their antagonistic nature, since they prioritise their own self-interests and often oppose the protagonist characters.
        3. Main characters: These characters are present throughout the work, regardless of whether they are protagonists or antagonists. They serve to communicate the intended message to society by their competing viewpoints.
        4. Minor characters: helping characters who help the main characters carry a message.
        5. Round characters are dynamic characters that undergo a transformation in their personality throughout the work of art. They undergo a process of progression from one stage to another. Alternatively, they are referred to as characters in the process of development.
        6. Flat characters are static in nature and do not undergo any changes during the entire work of art. Nevertheless, they may occasionally be referred to as static characters.
        7. Stock characters are borrowed characters from another field, such as from oral tradition.

        THE ROLE OF LITERATURE IN THE SOCIETY

        Literature has the following roles in the society:

        1. To educate individuals by instilling in them a sense of consciousness and self-motivation. It enhances individuals’ cognitive abilities by providing them with an understanding of current social conditions, thereby stimulating their capacity for logical thinking.
        2. To provide entertainment through the use of aesthetic delight that elicits a sense of enjoyment. Literary works such as books, plays, and films/movies are consumed by reading, listening, and viewing.
        3. In order to develop language, individuals must engage in activities that utilise language as the primary mode of communication. This includes developing skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. It enhances one’s lexicon and linguistic structure.
        4. The purpose is to emancipate individuals physically and intellectually by guiding them to confront their difficulties, enabling them to free themselves through active struggles while raising awareness and providing knowledge about social reality.
        5. It is important to critique society or individuals by highlighting their weaknesses, follies, vices, and evils and offering constructive suggestions for how society should move away from its current state.
        6. To articulate the cultural elements of society, encompassing values, conventions, customs, beliefs, language, etc., with the intention of highlighting and fostering the positive and beneficial features of that culture. Additionally, it motivates individuals to relinquish unfavorable practices, customs, and beliefs.
        7. To exert influence over individuals in order to facilitate reforms. Individuals can be swayed to take action or engage in certain behaviours as a result of consuming written or visual artistic creations. It inspires innovative concepts.

        Myths and Misconceptions about Literature

        Common Myths Several myths surround literature, such as the idea that it is only for the elite or that it is outdated in the digital age. These misconceptions can discourage people from exploring literary works and appreciating their value.

        Debunking Misconceptions Literature is for everyone, offering diverse genres and styles to suit all tastes and backgrounds. It remains relevant in the digital age, evolving with new technologies and continuing to inspire and educate readers worldwide.

        FAQs

        What is literature?

        Literature is a body of written works that express ideas, emotions, stories, and concepts through various forms, such as poetry, prose, and drama.

        What are the main types of literature?

        The main types of literature include poetry, prose, drama, fiction, and non-fiction, each offering unique ways to convey stories and ideas.

        Who are some influential literary figures?

        Influential literary figures include Homer, William Shakespeare, Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, Virginia Woolf, and James Joyce, each contributing significantly to the literary canon.

        How does literature impact society?

        Literature influences society by reflecting cultural, political, and social dynamics, challenging existing power structures, and fostering empathy and understanding among diverse groups.

        What are the benefits of reading literature?

        Reading literature offers cognitive stimulation, stress reduction, improved empathy, enhanced vocabulary, and critical thinking skills, contributing to personal and intellectual growth.

        What are some famous literary awards?

        Famous literary awards include the Nobel Prize in Literature, Pulitzer Prize, and Man Booker Prize, recognizing outstanding contributions to literature.

        QUICK QUOTE

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