Why Would an Author Use Personification?
Personification, the act of attributing human characteristics to non-human entities, is a powerful literary device that authors employ to enhance the descriptive power of their writing. This technique not only adds depth and richness to the narrative but also engages the reader’s imagination and emotions. In this article, we will explore several reasons why an author might choose to use personification in their work.
1. To Create a Stronger Connection with the Reader
One of the primary reasons authors use personification is to create a stronger connection with the reader. By giving inanimate objects or abstract concepts human-like qualities, the author can make them more relatable and tangible. For example, in John Keats’ poem “Ode on a Grecian Urn,” the urn is described as “a living soul.” This personification allows the reader to envision the urn as a character with its own story, fostering a sense of empathy and connection.
2. To Add Emotional Depth to the Story
Personification can also add emotional depth to a story. By attributing human emotions to non-human entities, authors can convey the underlying feelings of their characters or the setting. For instance, in “The Great Gatsby,” F. Scott Fitzgerald uses personification to describe the valley of ashes as “a vast, low-browed hell.” This vivid imagery evokes a sense of despair and hopelessness, enhancing the reader’s understanding of the character’s emotional state.
3. To Enhance Descriptive Power
Personification is a powerful tool for enhancing descriptive power. By attributing human-like qualities to objects or concepts, authors can create vivid and memorable imagery. For example, in William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” the moon is described as “the bright sun of night.” This personification not only highlights the moon’s brightness but also emphasizes its unexpected and contrasting nature.
4. To Convey Abstract Ideas
Abstract ideas can be challenging to convey in a tangible way. Personification allows authors to give these ideas a human face, making them more accessible to readers. For instance, in “The Great Gatsby,” the American Dream is personified as “the green light, the orgastic future that year by year recedes before us.” This personification helps readers understand the elusive and unattainable nature of the American Dream.
5. To Create a Sense of Atmosphere
Personification can also create a sense of atmosphere in a story. By attributing human-like qualities to the setting or environment, authors can evoke a specific mood or feeling. For example, in “The Old Man and the Sea,” Ernest Hemingway uses personification to describe the sea as “a great, rough, ugly, old man.” This imagery conveys the struggle and resilience of the protagonist, reinforcing the theme of the story.
In conclusion, personification is a versatile and powerful literary device that authors use to create a stronger connection with readers, add emotional depth to their stories, enhance descriptive power, convey abstract ideas, and create a sense of atmosphere. By attributing human-like qualities to non-human entities, authors can transform their writing into a captivating and memorable experience for readers.
