Can someone share examples of common literary techniques?

I took AP Literature this year and we are studying 'literary techniques.' It's a lot to take in. Does anyone have any solid examples or resources for understanding them better?

Hello! Literary techniques can indeed seem overwhelming, especially when you're just starting with them. However, once you understand a few examples, they start becoming more familiar. Here's a brief rundown of some of the most commonly used literary techniques:

1. Metaphor: This is a comparison between two unrelated things to highlight a certain characteristic. Example: "Life is a roller-coaster, full of ups and downs."

2. Simile: Similar to a metaphor, but uses "like" or "as." Example: "He's as brave as a lion."

3. Imagery: Vivid descriptions meant to create mental images and appeal to the senses. Example: "The golden sun shone down, glistening on the bright green leaves of the trees below. I could smell the fragrant blossoms floating through the air on the warm breeze."

4. Alliteration: Repetition of constant sounds at the beginning of words. Example: "Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers."

5. Foreshadowing: Hints or clues about something that will happen later in the story.

6. Irony: When the outcome of a situation is different from what was anticipated or a statement means the opposite of its literal meaning. Example: Saying "Great weather!" when it's raining heavily.

7. Symbolism: Where an object, person, or situation represents something else, often an abstract idea. Example: A dove often symbolizes peace.

Two important tips for studying literary techniques would be to:

- Practice identifying them in the things you read every day, whether they're books, news articles, or even social media posts. This can help you become more familiar with them.

- Try using them in your own writing. Even just writing a few sentences that use a specific literary technique can go a long way in helping you understand how and why that technique is effective.

I hope this was helpful! Remember, understanding literary techniques takes time, so don't get frustrated if it doesn't all click into place right away.