What Is Alliteration?

1. Why is Alliteration Used in Literature?
2. Alliteration vs Assonance
3. Example of Alliteration in Literature and Art

Perhaps you have heard this term in literature classes? If you don't remember, don't be upset. Surely you have read poems with strange repetitive consonants. And most likely, you were surprised why an author placed them in such a way, and what he or she wanted to emphasize with this technique. 

Well, read on – and you will find out not only everything about this term, but also undoubtedly want to create something like that by yourself.

Why is Alliteration Used in Literature?

We are dealing with a euphonic literature technique. This is one of the main phonetic means in the language of artistic works. The whole essence lies in the selection of words, with the same or similar consonants. As a result, the phrase sounds with an accumulation of certain sounds. So, the following things can be repeated:

• the same separate sounds;
• the same sound combinations;
• similar sounds and sound combinations.

What is the result of this technique? Of course, it has its own special functions in literature. Namely:

• enhancement of sound and intonation expressiveness;
• creation of a certain musical effect and rhythmic pattern in general;
• strengthening of semantic significance;
• actualization of certain feelings and emotions in a reader;
• transmission of emotional heat;
• sonic pun and comic effect.

To define this literary phenomenon, you need to read the poetic line or sentence carefully. Look if there are any identical consonants in the words. And also read the line several times, analyze what sounds stand out most often. In fact, this is not so difficult.

So, which of the following is an example of alliteration?

1. a) Samantha was very glad to succeed. 
2. b) Garry grumpily gathered the garbage.
3. c) Tom found himself on the tree.

Of course, the correct answer would be option b). Since there is a repeat of g in almost every word. Agree, it sounds funny! As if words rhyme with each other.

Read more: Are Season Names Capitalized?

Alliteration vs Assonance

These are the two main stylistic techniques in creating phonetic special effects. They, in fact, are mirrored opposite. Like an anaphora and an epiphora. But they are all united by the fact that these are examples of consonance.

Look at the table of comparison.

This topic is only a drop in the ocean of literary techniques and theory of literature. Accordingly, to master the art of poetry or to learn how to analyze literary works professionally, take special courses or hire a tutor. For example, you can find an experienced specialist for an adult or child on the UpskillsTutor platform.

Example of Alliteration in Literature and Art

As we mentioned above, this technique is mainly used by poets. Because thanks to the poetic form you can immediately give the audience an idea and an impression. The alliteration poem was known to the Ancient Celts and Germans. Little has changed since then, except that the main goal of the verse was basically pathetic. 

In the prose, the repetition of sounds is not so noticeable, but there it also emphasizes the mood or landscape picture. Consonants are more often used in the stylistic directions of impressionism and expressionism.

Let us look directly at the examples.

Also, many advertising ideas are based on the repetition of vowels or consonants. Pay attention to the names of famous brands, such as PayPal, Coca Cola, Dunkin’Donuts, Krispy Kreme. The phonetic tool used in them is able to appeal to your brain through sounding. The music industry has created many songs with alliteration.

No matter how well you understand the topic, classes with a tutor will not be superfluous. Especially if you have to pass any exams in language and literature. Individual classes are the key to reliable consolidation of knowledge and expansion of practical skills.

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