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Paradox
Definition of Personification
Personification is a type of figurative language in which non-human things are described as having human attributes, as in the sentence, "The rain poured down on the wedding guests, indifferent... read full definition
Personification is a type of figurative language in which non-human things are described as having human attributes, as in the sentence, "The rain poured down... read full definition
Personification is a type of figurative language in which non-human things are described as having human attributes, as in the... read full definition
Chapter 21. Flight
Explanation and Analysis—Howling Piano:
Margarita takes her devilish powers for a whirl in Chapter 21, when she lathers on Azazello’s cream, takes to the air, and enters a deeply personified world. Seeking vengeance for his slight towards the Master’s novel, she breaks into Latunsky’s flat and lays waste to the critic’s apartment:
Taking careful aim, she struck the piano keys, and the first pathetic howl spread through the apartment. The innocent parlor instrument screamed in a frenzy. Its keys dropped out, the ivory tops flew in all directions. The instrument howled, gurgled, rang.
Related Themes:
Explanation and Analysis—Moaning Riverbank:
In Chapter 21, Margarita passes Moscow’s threshold, dips into a river, and enters a kingdom whose magic makes the novel’s other events seem pale by comparison. Greeted by singing frogs and mermaids, the novel’s personification arranges a fitting ceremony for the queen of the underworld:
Unlock with LitCharts A+The transparent mermaids stopped their round of games over the river and waved to Margarita with water weeds. The greenish, deserted bank moaned with their greetings, echoing far and wide.
