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Symbolic Storytelling: Understanding Allegory and Alliteration in Contemporary Literature

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Connor Chase
Symbolic Storytelling: Understanding Allegory and Alliteration in Contemporary Literature

Introduction


Contemporary literature is awash with allusion and symbolism. Writers nowadays use allegories and alliterations to convey messages that often have deeper meanings than what the story itself offers.


In this blog post, we will be discussing the concept of symbolic storytelling, exploring what allegory and alliteration are, and how they are used in contemporary literature.



What is Symbolism in Literature?


Symbolism in literature is the use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities. Writers typically use a combination of literary devices, such as allegories, metaphors, and allusions, to create a story with a deeper meaning.


The use of symbolism in literature is not new; writers have been using it for centuries.


Symbolism can convey powerful themes like love, death, and hope. It adds depth to literature and makes stories more memorable.



What is Allegory in Literature?


An allegory is a literary device in which characters, events, and places are used to symbolize a deeper meaning.


It is a form of extended metaphor in which objects or characters represent something else. Allegory works by layering meaning on top of meaning, allowing readers to interpret a work in multiple ways.


The most well-known allegory is George Orwell's Animal Farm, whereby the animal characters represent political figures and ideologies.



How is Allegory Used in Contemporary Literature?


Contemporary literature is packed with allegory. Stephen King's The Dark Tower series, for instance, can be interpreted as an allegory for addiction and recovery.


In the Harry Potter franchise, the Deathly Hallows represents the journey to find true wisdom, power, and personal immortality.


Even Hollywood is using allegory, such as in Jordan Peele's Get Out, which is a modern-day exploration of modern-day racism in America.



What is Alliteration in Literature?


Alliteration is a literary device that involves using the same consonant sound at the beginning of several words in a sentence or phrase.


The aim is to create a musical or rhythmic effect, making the text flow more smoothly. The effect can range from subtle to very strong. It is commonly used in poetry and song lyrics.



How is Alliteration Used in Contemporary Literature?


Alliteration is more commonly used in poetry, but it is also used in contemporary literature.


Mark Haddon's The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, for instance, uses alliteration to create a staccato rhythm that reflects the story's protagonist’s obsessive nature.


Cormac McCarthy's The Road features a bleak, dystopian world, and the author uses alliteration to create a sense of desolation and desperation.



Conclusion


Symbolic storytelling is a powerful way to convey messages that go beyond the surface narrative. Allegory and alliteration are two powerful tools in the writer's arsenal, allowing them to convey deeper meanings in their work.


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By understanding how these literary devices work, writers can create stories that resonate with readers on multiple levels, ensuring their work is memorable and moving.

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