Assonance is a literary device in which two or more words or phrases are repeated with the same vowel sound Assonance creates a smooth flow of speech, emphasis, and meaning in poetry, prose, and song lyrics. It is closely related to alliteration and consonance, however, whereas alliteration involves repetition of consonant sounds and consonance involves repetition of consonant clusters, assonance is the repetition of two or more vowel sounds.
Assonance is a type of figurative language used to create musicality and elicit emotion in the reader. It can be used to create specific images, reinforce a theme or mood, or convey a feeling. By repeating the same vowel sounds and accenting them, assonance can add depth to a piece of writing. The use of assonance helps draw readers in, making the writing more engaging and memorable.
The five best examples of assonance are:
1. “A green thought in a green shade” - Andrew Marvell
2. “The bee’s knees buzzed in the breeze” - Unknown
3. “The sound of snowflakes falling softly” - Unknown
4. “Love will tear us apart once again” - Joy Division
5. “A mighty mumble of murmurs” - T.S. Eliot
These examples demonstrate how assonance can be used to create an effective rhythm and sound. The repetition of the same vowel sounds lends itself to a gentle, musical inflection, as in Marvell’s poem, or a more chaotic effect, as in Joy Division’s lyrics. It can also be used to create a sense of mystery and intrigue, as in T.S. Eliot’s poem.
The use of assonance can be a powerful tool for authors, poets, and songwriters. It can be used to draw readers in, add emphasis, and create vivid imagery. By understanding how to use assonance properly, writers can create smooth, lyrical passages and emphasize particular words and phrases.