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What is a conceit in literature?

A conceit in literature is a type of figurative language in which the writer establishes a comparison between two very different concepts or objects. Conceit is a specific use of extended metaphor. Conceits in literature often use multiple metaphors, juxtapositions, or similes to create and enhance the comparison.

Conceit is a literary device that compares things that are not usually compared. Here are some examples of conceit in literature: 

  • A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning By John Donne, this poem compares lovers to the two points of a compass. 
  • Because I could not stop for Death By Emily Dickinson, this poem compares dying to a carriage ride. 
  • Sonnet 130 By William Shakespeare, this poem compares his lover to nature, but in a way that contradicts the usual favorable descriptions. 
  • The Flea By John Donne, this poem uses a flea as a metaphor to propose to his beloved. 
  • Diving into the Wreck By Adrienne Rich, this poem uses the conceit of exploring a shipwreck to reflect on the speaker’s past understanding of the world. 

Conceit can also be found in idioms, such as: “It’s the best thing since sliced bread, “Life is a bowl of cherries, “Dead as a doornail, and “The apple of discord. 

Written with AI

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ABOUT AUTHOR
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Aishwariya Laxmi

I’m Aishwariya. I’m passionate about writing, reading, marketing communications, books, blogging, poetry and editing. I’ve donned several hats, such as freelance journalist, copywriter, blogger and editor.

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