What is the Difference Between Literary Devices and Poetic Devices?

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The main difference between literary devices and poetic devices lies in their scope and application. Literary devices are techniques used by writers to express their ideas effectively and make their work more interesting, while poetic devices are a variant of literary devices used specifically in poetry to convey the poet's intention.

Here are some key points to understand the difference:

  • Literary devices are broader in scope and can be used in various forms of literature, such as novels, plays, poetry, theories, and essays.
  • Poetic devices are specific to poetry and are seldom used in anything other than poetry.
  • Both literary devices and poetic devices are used to enhance the meaning of a work of literature and create a dramatized effect.

Some examples of literary devices include metaphors, similes, personification, and symbolism, while poetic devices include rhyme, rhythm, alliteration, and enjambment. It's important to note that poetic devices are by default literary devices because poetry is a form of literature. However, the distinction between the two is made based on the specific application and focus of these devices in different types of literature.

Comparative Table: Literary Devices vs Poetic Devices

The main difference between literary devices and poetic devices is that literary devices are tools used by writers to enhance their work, while poetic devices are a variant of literary devices specifically used in poetry to convey the poet's intention. Here is a table summarizing the differences between literary devices and poetic devices:

Feature Literary Devices Poetic Devices
Purpose Enhance the meaning and effectiveness of a work of literature Convey the poet's intention and make the poem more lyrical, rhythmic, and engaging
Context Used in novels, plays, poetry, theories, and essays Specific to poetry
Examples Metaphor, simile, personification, alliteration Rhyme, meter, enjambment, assonance

Literary devices are used to create a dramatized effect on the work, while poetic devices are specialized tools used by poets to make their poems more lyrical and rhythmic, as well as to integrate layers of meaning in a poem. Some literary devices, such as figures of speech, are used across all works of literature, including poetry. However, poetic devices are seldom used in anything other than poetry.