ACT (Enhanced)ReadingMedium
A poet writes: 'The city breathes a sigh of steel and glass, Its concrete veins pulse with hurried light. Beneath the towering giants, shadows pass, And whispers echo through the endless night.' Which literary device is most prominently used in these lines?
- ASimile
- BHyperbole
- CMetaphor
- DPersonification
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Personification
The lines attribute human qualities ('breathes a sigh,' 'concrete veins pulse,' 'whispers echo') to an inanimate object, the city. This granting of human characteristics to non-human entities is the definition of personification.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Simile uses 'like' or 'as' to compare, which is not present here.
- B. Hyperbole is exaggeration for effect, which is not the primary device used in these lines.
- C. While there are metaphorical elements (e.g., 'concrete veins'), the most prominent device is giving human actions to the city.
Literary Device: Personification
Attributing human characteristics, emotions, or behaviors to inanimate objects, animals, or abstract ideas.
- Makes non-human entities seem alive and relatable.
- Adds vividness and imagery to descriptions.
- Differs from metaphor or simile by specifically giving human traits.
Memory trick: Devices refine text; choose the one that fits best.