What Are Literary Devices?

Literary devices are tools authors use to make their writing more powerful. Recognizing them helps you understand how stories, poems, and plays create meaning and emotion.

Common Literary Devices

• Metaphor: Comparing two things without using 'like' or 'as'.
• Simile: Comparing two things using 'like' or 'as'.
• Symbolism: Using objects or actions to represent larger ideas.
• Irony: When the opposite of what's expected happens.

Analyzing Devices

Ask yourself:

• What devices are present?
• How do they affect the tone or mood?
• Why might the author use them here?

Real-World Connections

Understanding literary devices helps you appreciate movies, music, and advertisements—because they use these tricks too!