Personification

• “Personification” refers to giving human characteristics to non-human entities or inanimate objects. This is a common technique used in various forms of writing, especially in poetry and prose, to make the text more engaging or imaginative.

• This figure of speech encourages readers to build a deeper understanding or connection with the subjects portrayed in the text by relating them to human experiences.

• For example, a sentence like, “The wind whispered through the trees,” gives a human action (whispering) to a non-human element (wind). This not only makes the description more vivid but also adds an emotional layer to the scene.

• Recognising personification in a text is a key part of reading and understanding language and structure. It offers insight into the author’s intentions, the mood or atmosphere they’re creating, and how they want the reader to perceive certain entities or concepts.

• Analyse how personification affects your overall understanding of the text. Ask questions like: What does this human trait reveal about the non-human entity? How does it contribute to the general meaning or theme of the piece? How does it aid in setting the tone?

• Be aware that personification can be used to project the writer’s feelings or attitudes towards the non-human subject. This can provide a deeper understanding of the message the author wishes to communicate.

• Write about personification in a clear and effective manner. Use evidence from the text to support your observations and interpretations. Discuss the impact of the personified elements on the readers and how it aids in achieving the desired effect or mood.

• Practice identifying and analysing personification in various texts to hone your reading skills in language and structure. This will also help you appreciate the beauty and power of language a bit more.