Murray Literary Devices

Simile

A comparison of two different things using the word like or as.

“Her smile was as bright as the sun.”

Metaphor

A direct comparison between two different things without using like or as.

“Time is a thief.”

Analogy

A comparison between two things to explain or clarify an idea.

“Finding a good friend is like finding a needle in a haystack.”

Personification

Giving human qualities or actions to something nonhuman.

“The wind whispered through the trees.”

Allusion

A reference to a well-known person, place, event, or work of art/literature.

“He was a real Romeo with the ladies.”

Imagery

Descriptive language that appeals to the five senses (sight, sound, smell, taste, touch).

“The scent of fresh-baked bread filled the air.”

Anecdote

A short, personal story told to make a point or illustrate an idea.

“When I was a kid, I learned the hard way not to touch the stove.”

Rhetorical Question

A question asked for effect, not to get an actual answer.

“Isn’t it obvious?”

Repetition

Using the same word, phrase, or structure more than once for the emphasis.

“Never give up. Never give in. Never stop believing.”

Parallel Structure

Using the same grammatical form to show balance or equality in ideas.

“We came. We saw. We conquered.”

Paradox

A statement that seems to contradict itself but may reveal a truth.

“Less is more.”

Idiom

A common phrase whose meaning is different from the literal words.

“It’s raining cats and dogs.” (Raining heavy)

Symbol

An object, character, or image that stands for a deeper meaning.

A dove symbolizes peace.

Tone

The author’s attitude toward the subject or audience, shown through word choice and style.

A story might have a humorous tone, serious tone, or even a hopeful tone.

Hyperbole

An extreme exaggeration used for emphasis or effect.

“I’m so hungry I could eat a horse.”