Figurative devices

Definition

Figurative devices are literary techniques used to create imagery, express ideas, and convey emotions through language that goes beyond the literal meaning of words. These devices help writers enhance their storytelling by making descriptions more vivid and engaging, allowing readers to connect with the narrative on a deeper level. In narrative journalism, figurative devices play a crucial role in shaping the reader's experience by transforming factual reporting into compelling stories.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Figurative devices are essential in narrative journalism as they help convey complex emotions and concepts in a relatable way.
2. Common figurative devices include metaphors, similes, personification, and hyperbole, each serving different purposes in storytelling.
3. Using figurative language can evoke strong emotional responses from readers, making them more invested in the story being told.
4. Unlike traditional reporting, which focuses on straightforward facts, narrative journalism often employs figurative devices to create a more immersive reading experience.
5. Effective use of figurative devices can elevate the quality of narrative journalism by adding layers of meaning and enhancing the overall impact of the story.

Review Questions

• How do figurative devices enhance storytelling in narrative journalism compared to traditional reporting?
  • Figurative devices enhance storytelling in narrative journalism by adding depth and emotional resonance that traditional reporting often lacks. While traditional reporting focuses primarily on conveying facts and information straightforwardly, narrative journalism uses techniques like metaphors and similes to create vivid imagery and emotional connections with readers. This approach helps to transform dry facts into engaging narratives that resonate with the audience on a personal level, drawing them into the story.
• In what ways can metaphors and similes be utilized effectively in narrative journalism?
  • Metaphors and similes can be utilized effectively in narrative journalism by providing relatable comparisons that clarify complex ideas or emotions. For instance, a journalist might use a metaphor to describe a community’s struggle during a crisis, making it easier for readers to understand the gravity of the situation. By painting a vivid picture through these comparisons, writers can evoke empathy and encourage readers to engage more deeply with the human experiences behind the facts.
• Evaluate how imagery created by figurative devices impacts reader engagement in narrative journalism.
  • Imagery created by figurative devices significantly impacts reader engagement by making stories more relatable and emotionally compelling. When writers use descriptive language and figurative expressions, they help readers visualize scenes and connect with characters on a personal level. This connection fosters empathy and investment in the narrative, encouraging readers not just to understand but to feel the experiences being portrayed. The effectiveness of this approach can lead to a more profound understanding of social issues and human experiences reflected in journalistic storytelling.

Related terms

Metaphor: A figure of speech that compares two unlike things directly, suggesting that one thing is another to highlight similarities.

Simile: A figure of speech that makes a comparison between two different things using 'like' or 'as' to create vivid imagery.

Imagery: Descriptive language that appeals to the senses, creating mental pictures and enhancing the emotional experience of the narrative.