The Canonization : Literary devices
The Canonization is a notable literary work by John Donne. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of The Canonization.
Literary devices
Figures of Speech
Conceit
A conceit is a strange and far-fetched comparison between two very different things. It is a surprising comparison that runs across many lines. So, conceit is also known as extended metaphor.
Example: Donne compares the lovers to saints. He writes, “ Us canonized for love.” The lovers are not real saints, but their love is so pure and deep that they become “canonized” (saints). People should respect their deep love, like people respect saints. People should pray to learn loving like them.
Metaphor
Metaphor is a comparison between two different things (without “like” or “as”).
Example—
Candles/Tapers:
“We’re tapers too, and at our own cost die.”
The lovers are compared to candles (tapers) that burn slowly and die. The speaker says he and his beloved burn slowy for love. It means they give all of themselves to love.
Phoenix:
“The phoenix…
We die and rise the same,”
The lovers are compared to the phoenix, a bird that dies and is born again. This is a naughty comparison. Here, “die” means physical consumation of love. The speaker says he and his beloved are like the phoenix bird. They die by loving each other, and become fresh again.