Euphemism is a figure of speech that involves the substitution of a mild, inoffensive, or vague term for one that is considered harsh, unpleasant, or blunt. It is often used as a way to avoid offending or upsetting people or to make something sound more appealing or palatable. While this use of language can be […]
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Analysis of “Eldorado” by Edgar Allan Poe
Introduction “Eldorado” is a poem by Edgar Allan Poe, published in 1849. The poem is a quest for the city of Eldorado, a mythical place of great wealth and prosperity. The poem begins with the speaker riding alone, seeking the city of Eldorado. He has searched for many years and is now old and weary. […]
How does the theme of “The Tide Rises the Tide Falls” develop as the poem moves forward?
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote this poem, “The Tide Rises, the Tide Falls,” in the 19th century, giving it an artistic expression. Henry wrote this poem about the recurring cycle of life. But how does the theme of “the tide rises, the tide falls” develop as the poem moves forward. This is the question that demands […]
What is Langston Hughes saying in his poem “I Too?”
Introduction The Langston Hughes poem “I, too,” was originally published in 1940 and addresses the topic of racism in America. The poem’s first stanza begins with the phrase I, too, sing America and then continues on to describe life as an African American living in America throughout history. The poem contains many metaphors that highlight […]
The Tell-Tale Heart by Edgar Allan Poe – Themes
The Tell-Tale Heart by Edgar Allan Poe, a phenomenal American writer, and poet, is a heart-wrenching tale of a psychopath. First published in 1843, the story focuses on inner psychological concerns and drastic impacts on humanity. While unfolding the phenomenon of mental illness in the story, the writer touches on various themes. Some of the major […]
What is Postmodernism in Literature?
Introduction The term postmodernism can be difficult to define. That’s because it emerged from modernism, and the two are often used interchangeably in literature discussions, criticism, and analysis. Postmodernism encompasses the use of techniques that were pioneered by modernist authors, such as stream-of-consciousness writing and symbolism. Many literary critics say that we’re still living in […]
How to Cite a Literary Criticism?
Introduction Reading literary criticism can help us learn new perspectives on our favourite books. Also, it gives us new insights into the works of lesser-known authors we just discovered. Citing a literary criticism can seem like an intimidating task. But, when you break down the basic elements of citing the source, it’s not that difficult […]
What Did Shakespeare Name His Only Son?
Introduction William Shakespeare famously created masterpieces like Hamlet and Macbeth. His works brought him unmatchable glory and fame. Although the world knows him well because of his literary efforts, yet a few may know about his family and, most notably, about his son. The world knows that he had only one daughter, who was born in 1583. However, […]
Who influenced T. S Eliot?
TS Elliot TS Eliot was a British poet, essayist, literary critic and playwright famous for the poetry in The Waste Land and Four Quartets. He is considered one of the major poets of the 20th century. Also, he is widely acclaimed as a central figure in English language modernist poetry. T. S Eliot was very young when he […]
Russian Formalism as a Literary Theory
Introduction Russian Formalism is an influential literary theory that pays particular attention to the form and structure of works, rather than the author’s background or other external factors. As a student of literature, it can be helpful to understand what the Formalists were talking about and how their literary criticism can help you appreciate literature […]