Question

The signs reading “Consult DRAGON’S TEETH The People For Total Security” and “YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED” in Nadine Gordimer’s “Once Upon a Time” are an example of what literary device? Select all that apply.
irony
foreshadowing
metonymy
simile

Answer 1

Answer:

• irony
• foreshadowing
• metonymy

Explanation:

The works mentioned in the question above have the devices irony, foreshadowing and metonymy. These devices can be explained as follows:

Irony is the figure of speech that consists of using a word or expression so that it has a different meaning than usual and produces a subtle mood. For irony to work, this play on words must be done elegantly, in a way that does not let the intention show immediately. Irony must stimulate reasoning, it must make the reader (or listener) consider the various possible meanings that a certain word or expression can have, until it finds the one that fits the message, producing an unusual meaning.

Foreshadowing is the literary device where the author advances information about something that will be shown later in the story. This device is intended to make the reader curious and anxious about how that advance information will happen.

Metonymy consists of using one term in place of another, with a close affinity or relation of meaning between them. For example: I really enjoy reading Shakespeare (what the speaker means is that he likes to read Shakespeare's books). Don't let go of your cross (don't let go of your problems).

Answer 2

Answer:

Irony

Foreshadowing

Metonymy