Literary Devices and Structural Choices

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A reference to another work, person, or event. Creates connections to other works, events, or figures, enriching meaning and providing context. Example: "She had a smile like the Mona Lisa." (Reference to Da Vinci's famous painting.)

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Allusion

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The use of symbols to represent ideas or concepts. Represents abstract ideas, adding depth and layers of meaning. Example: A red rose symbolizes love and passion.

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Symbolism

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Descriptive language appealing to the senses. Appeals to the senses, vividly painting scenes or emotions to immerse the audience. Example: "The golden sunlight spilled across the meadow, painting the grass in warm hues."

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Imagery

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A recurring element or theme in a text. Reinforces themes through repetition, creating coherence and emphasis. Example: Repeated mentions of mirrors in a story about self-identity.

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Motif

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Hints about what is to come. Builds suspense and prepares the audience for future events. Example: "He didn't know it yet, but the unopened letter would change everything."

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Foreshadowing

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Contrasts between expectation and reality. Highlights contrasts, often to provoke thought or create tension. Examples: Dramatic: The audience knows Juliet is alive, but Romeo believes she’s dead. Situational: A fire station burns down. Verbal: Saying, “Great weather today!” during a hurricane.

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Irony (Dramatic, Situational, Verbal)

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Contrasts between expectation and reality. Highlights contrasts, often to provoke thought or create tension. Examples: Dramatic: The audience knows Juliet is alive, but Romeo believes she’s dead. Situational: A fire station burns down. Verbal: Saying, “Great weather today!” during a hurricane.

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Irony (Dramatic, Situational, Verbal)

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Placing contrasting ideas or images side by side. Places opposing elements side-by-side to emphasize differences and highlight contrasts. Example: A description of a war-torn city followed by a peaceful countryside.

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Juxtaposition

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The emotional atmosphere of a scene. Sets the emotional tone for the reader, shaping their experience of the text. Example: "The abandoned house creaked in the wind, shadows dancing on the walls." (Eerie mood)

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Mood

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The author’s attitude toward the subject or audience. Reflects the author’s attitude toward the subject, influencing the audience’s perception. Example: "I cannot believe this is happening—how could they betray us?" (Angry tone)

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Tone