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Literary Devices
Definition of Alliteration
Alliteration is a figure of speech in which the same sound repeats in a group of words, such as the “b” sound in: “Bob brought the box of bricks to... read full definition
Alliteration is a figure of speech in which the same sound repeats in a group of words, such as the “b” sound in: “Bob brought... read full definition
Alliteration is a figure of speech in which the same sound repeats in a group of words, such as the... read full definition
Key Examples in Picnic at Hanging Rock
Alliteration
Explanation and Analysis:
Picnic at Hanging Rock contains a striking amount of alliteration. In her descriptions of the setting, the characters, and the narrative's events, Lindsay frequently draws on alliterative formulations and sentences. This adds to the liveliness of the prose, which in turn keeps the mood from ever feeling completely sinister.
Related Themes:
Chapter 10
Explanation and Analysis—Afloat in a Sea Cave:
While much of Picnic at Hanging Rock feels either sinister or playful, the novel nevertheless contains a number of descriptions that feel tender and touching. One such description can be found in Chapter 10, when Irma and Mademoiselle are reunited for the first time since the day of the picnic. Using alliteration, imagery, personification, and simile, Lindsay evokes the heartwarming moment—and temporarily replaces the grim mood and playful tone with stirring sincerity:
Unlock with LitCharts A+The venetian blinds were drawn against the green garden light that rippled on the whitewashed walls of the bare little room and on the immense double bed with its patchwork quilt, seemingly afloat in a sea cave. The soft summer air caressed and healed like water.
Related Themes:
