examples of apostrophe in creative writing

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Apostrophe Definition

What is apostrophe? Here’s a quick and simple definition:

Apostrophe is a figure of speech in which a speaker directly addresses someone (or something) that is not present or cannot respond in reality. The entity being addressed can be an absent, dead, or imaginary person, but it can also be an inanimate object (like stars or the ocean), an abstract idea (like love or fate), or a being (such as a Muse or god).

Some additional key details about apostrophe:

• Apostrophe, the figure of speech, should not be confused with apostrophe, the punctuation mark.
• The word "apostrophe," which comes from ancient Greek, literally means "turning away," because to perform apostrophe on stage, an actor turns away from the scene to address an absent entity.
• An apostrophe is often introduced by the exclamation "O," as when Juliet cries out: "O Romeo, Romeo, Wherefore art thou Romeo?"
• Apostrophe appears most often in poetry and plays, though it can appear in prose literature as well.
• Apostrophe always addresses its object in the second person. Sometimes this address involves the word "you" or the more formal "thou." Other times the "you" is not included, as when the narrator of Herman Melville's story Bartleby, the Scrivener ends his tale with the despairing apostrophe: "Ah, Bartleby! Ah, humanity!"

Apostrophe Pronunciation

Here's how to pronounce apostrophe: uh- poss -truh-fee

Apostrophe and Personification

Apostrophe often involves the speaker or writer addressing an inanimate object or abstract idea. In doing so, the speaker or writer will often impart to the object human characteristics. The object, in other words, gets personified . Take these two lines from William Wordsworth's "Prelude":

There was a Boy: ye knew him well, ye cliffs And islands of Winander!

Here, in addition to performing an apostrophe in which the speaker addresses the cliffs and islands, Wordsworth personifies those cliffs and islands by imagining them as capable of knowing someone.

However, though apostrophe often involves personification of inanimate objects or abstract ideas, it certainly doesn't always . For instance, in the example below from the end of James Joyce's novel A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man , Joyce has his main character Stephen Dedalus address "Life," but without ascribing any human qualities to it:

Amen. So be it. Welcome, O life! I go to encounter for the millionth time the reality of experience and to forge in the smithy of my soul the uncreated conscience of my race.

Here Stephen simply addresses life as it is, as something to be experienced, and not as something that itself has experiences, or feelings, or acts in any other way like a human.

Scholarly Debates About Apostrophe

It's worth knowing that there is some debate among scholars about exactly what does and doesn't count as apostrophe. These debates, like lots of scholarly debates, can be a bit technical. But knowing the basics of the debates can help you understand apostrophe, and can also help you understand why some definitions of apostrophe on the Internet seem to define it in different ways.

Apostrophe and "Aversion"

Though everyone agrees that apostrophe is a form of address to a silent listener, some scholars insist that apostrophe must involve what they call an "aversion," a turning away from an original audience to then address the subject of the apostrophe. This way of thinking about apostrophe is based in theater, where a character onstage would literally turn away from the other characters when issuing an apostrophe. For example, in the induction of Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew , the Lord is speaking to his huntsmen then suddenly he breaks off to exclaim:

"Grim death, how foul and loathsome is thine image!"

Most scholars, though, define apostrophe more broadly as being any "exclamation," or impassioned outcry, in which a speaker directly addresses an absent or silent object directly. For instance, many poems that address people or inanimate objects begin and end with their subject—they don't turn to their subject from something else, because they only ever address that one subject. Percy Bysshe Shelley's "Ode to the West Wind" is an example: it begins with the line: "O wild West Wind, thou breath of Autumn's being!" and then continues to address the West Wind for the entirety of the 70 line poem.

Authorial Intrusion vs. Apostrophe

There is also some debate about whether all direct addresses from a writer to that writer's audience, sometimes known as "authorial intrusion," counts as a form of apostrophe. For instance, the novel Jane Eyre famously ends with a line in which Jane, who has narrated the entire story, suddenly directly addresses her audience to say: "Reader, I married him."

However, while the speaker (Jane) is here breaking off from her narration to directly address the reader, most scholars agree that this sort of authorial intrusion is not apostrophe. The reason is that apostrophe does not only address itself to a silent or absent entity—it must address a specific entity. Beaudelaire's poem "To The Reader" may therefore be considered an example of apostrophe, because Beaudelaire describes the reader and makes him come to life, addressing him directly at the end:

There's one more damned than all. He never gambols, Nor crawls, nor roars, but, from the rest withdrawn, Gladly of this whole earth would make a shambles And swallow up existence with a yawn... Boredom! He smokes his hookah, while he dreams Of gibbets, weeping tears he cannot smother. You know this dainty monster, too, it seems — Hypocrite reader! — You! — My twin! — My brother!

Apostrophe in Elegies, Odes, and Other Poetic Forms

A number of poetic forms are closely associated with apostrophes, such that these sorts of poems, more often than not, contain apostrophe. Elegy and ode , two common poetic forms both make frequent use of apostrophe. An elegy, a poem written to commemorate a person who has died, sometimes addresses that person directly, or laments the death to other people, to nature, or to god. In "Elegy for Jane," Roethke addresses Jane directly in the last stanza:

If only I could nudge you from this sleep My maimed darling, my skittery pigeon.

An ode, like an elegy, usually praises and describes its subject, as in Keats' "Ode to a Nightingale," in which he addresses his subject directly, from his opening line:

Thou wast not made for death, immortal Bird!

In addition, poems that contain an envoi , a short concluding stanza found particularly in ballades and sestinas , often contain apostrophe. The envoi regularly (though certainly not always) serves as a dedication to a patron, beloved, or muse, and these dedications often take the form of an apostrophe.

Apostrophe Examples

Examples of apostrophe in literature.

Apostrophe is found throughout literature: it appears in poetry, prose, and drama, and across all eras from ancient Greek epic poetry through modern times.

Apostrophe in The Odyssey

One of the earliest and most famous examples of apostrophe in literature comes from Homer, who begins both The Iliad and The Odyssey with an invocation of the Muse. The Odyssey begins with the following lines, which ask the Muse, a goddess of the arts, to help the author in his work:

Sing in me, Muse, and through me tell the story of that man skilled in all ways of contending, the wanderer, harried for years on end, after he plundered the stronghold on the proud height of Troy.

Apostrophe in Shakespeare's Macbeth

Apostrophe pops up all over the place in Shakespeare, as his characters often address abstract ideas or inanimate objects while onstage. In Macbeth , while Macbeth is struggling with whether to follow through with a planned murder, he sees an apparition of a dagger and addresses it:

Is this a dagger which I see before me, The handle toward my hand? Come, let me clutch thee. I have thee not, and yet I see thee still. Art thou not, fatal vision, sensible To feeling as to sight?

Apostrophe in Keats' "Ode on a Grecian Urn"

The works of Romantic poets of the nineteenth century, who were steeped in Greek poetry and myth, are also filled with apostrophe. Several of John Keats' odes, in particular, address their subjects directly. In "Ode on a Grecian Urn," Keats speaks to a beautiful ancient vase, addressing it as a bride, a child, and a historian, and also as a kind of Muse, who, if it could speak, would write more eloquently than Keats himself:

Thou still unravish'd bride of quietness, Thou foster-child of silence and slow time, Sylvan historian, who canst thus express A flowery tale more sweetly than our rhyme

Apostrophe in Woolf's The Waves

The modernist writer Virginia Woolf, who wrote in the early 20th century, also regularly used apostrophe in as part of the "stream of consciousness" that she often created for her characters. Here, in Woolf's The Waves, one character, Rhoda, cries out in anger to "human beings":

What dissolution of the soul you demanded in order to get through one day, what lies, bowings, scrapings, fluency and servility! How you chained me to one spot, one hour, one chair, and sat yourselves down opposite!

Examples of Apostrophe in Song Lyrics

Many different genres of music make use of apostrophe, as it creates a direct emotional attachment between the singer and his or her subject.

Apostrophe in "Do You Remember Walter?" by the Kinks

Here are the Kinks, a pop band, singing to an old friend:

Walter, remember when the world was young and all the girls knew Walter's name? Walter, isn't it a shame the way our little world has changed. Do you remember Walter playing cricket in the thunder and the rain? Do you remember Walter smoking cigarettes behind your garden gate? Yes, Walter was my mate. But Walter, my old friend, where are you now?

Apostrophe in "I'll Be Missing You" by Puffy

Here is the rapper Sean Combs, known as Puffy, in "I'll Be Missing You," an elegy for his friend Biggie Smalls:

I saw your son today, he look just like you You was the greatest, you'll always be the greatest I miss you B.I.G Can't wait til that day, when I see your face again

Apostrophe in "The Banks O' Doon" by Robert Burns

In an old Scottish folk song whose lyrics were composed by Robert Burns, the speaker addresses a river called Doon:

Ye banks and braes o' bonnie Doon How ye can bloom so fresh and fair How can ye chant ye little birds And I sae weary fu' o' care

Apostrophe in "Princess Leia" by Blink 182

Here the punk band Blink 182 sings to a girl, who seems to be more of a fantasy girl than a real person, and whom they call Princess Leia:

Princess Leia, where are you tonight? And who's laying there by your side? Every night I fall asleep with you And I wake up alone

Why Do Writers Use Apostrophe?

Apostrophe is used primarily to express strong emotion (like love, hate, fear, or anger), but it allows the speaker or writer to do so by directly addressing the subject of their thoughts or feelings, which makes the expression less abstract. Speakers or characters may use apostrophe to make an impassioned plea or prayer, to celebrate a happy occasion, or to lament a loss. The device creates a heightened emotional atmosphere in a literary work, often forming a peak in a given scene.

Apostrophe can also serve a similar purpose as monologue or soliloquy , which gives deeper insight into a character's thoughts and feelings, and can also reveal a character's inner conflict. The sincerity and directness that is inherent in apostrophe's second person address can give a reader a sense of intimacy with the character, and can help to establish an empathetic relationship between the speaker/writer and the audience.

Other Helpful Apostrophe Resources

• The Wikipedia entry on apostrophe: on apostrophe: short and sweet, with a bunch of good examples.
• A dictionary definition of apostrophe : This definition covers both the punctuation mark and the figure of speech. It also provides a brief etymology of the word.
• Macbeth's apostrophe to the dagger: Macbeth, played by Patrick Stewart, addresses his vision of a dagger.

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Definition of Apostrophe

Death, Be Not Proud , though some have called thee Mighty and dreadful, for thou are not so;

Common Examples of Apostrophe in Everyday Speech

Examples of apostrophe in song lyrics, examples of apostrophe in shakespeare, difference between apostrophe as literary device and punctuation, difference between apostrophe and personification, use of apostrophe in sentences, examples of apostrophe in literature, example 1:  the raven  (edgar allan poe).

“Be that word our sign of parting, bird or fiend!” I shrieked, upstarting— “Get thee back into the tempest and the Night ’s Plutonian shore! Leave no black plume as a token of that lie thy soul hath spoken! Leave my loneliness unbroken!—quit the bust above my door! Take thy beak from out my heart, and take thy form from off my door!” Quoth the Raven “Nevermore.” And the Raven, never flitting, still is sitting, still is sitting On the pallid bust of Pallas just above my chamber door; And his eyes have all the seeming of a demon’s that is dreaming, And the lamp-light o’er him streaming throws his shadow on the floor; And my soul from out that shadow that lies floating on the floor Shall be lifted—nevermore!

In Poe’s well-known poem, the poet “speaks” to a visiting raven. Though the Raven is “present” in the poem and does repeatedly respond with the word “nevermore,” Poe still incorporates apostrophe as a literary device on behalf of the speaker/poet. The Raven in this instance functions more as an abstraction or symbol than a literal bird with powers of awareness and understanding of human speech. Therefore, Poe’s use of apostrophe in his poem is effective in allowing the reader to “hear” the poet’s internal thoughts and feelings as he projects them onto the Raven by “conversing” with it. This serves to emphasize the poet’s feelings of loneliness and isolation, which provides insight and meaning for the reader.

Example 2:  The Glass Menagerie  (Tennessee Williams)

Oh, Laura , Laura, I tried to leave you behind me, but I am more faithful than I intended to be ! I reach for a cigarette, I cross the street, I run into the movies or a bar, I buy a drink, I speak to the nearest stranger -anything that can blow your candles out ! – for nowadays the world is lit by lightning ! Blow out your candles, Laura – and so good-bye.

Example 3:  The Color Purple  (Alice Walker)

Dear God, They put Sofia to work in the prison laundry. All day long from five to eight she washing clothes. Dirty convict uniforms, nasty sheets and blankets piled way over her head. Us see her twice a month for half an hour. Her face yellow and sickly, her fingers look like fatty sausage. Everything nasty here, she say, even the air. Food bad enough to kill you with it. Roaches here, mice, flies, lice and even a snake or two. If you say anything they strip you, make you sleep on a cement floor without a light. How you manage? us ast. Every time they ast me to do something, Miss Celie, I act like I’m you. I jump right up and do just what they say.

Much of the narration of Walker’s novel is done with the use of an apostrophe, as Celie addresses her thoughts, feelings, and observations to God. This literary device is very effective in its use because the reader is allowed the most intimate view into Celie’s character as she openly expresses her private self to God in her “letters”–something she is not able to do with any of the characters who are actually present in the literary work. In addition, by writing/speaking to God, the reader is able to implicitly trust Celie’s narration of the events and other characters in the novel. Therefore, Celie’s eyes and ears become those of the reader’s, and the expression of her thoughts and feelings to God allows for the reader to have similar omniscience in terms of the story .

Synonyms of Apostrophe

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Literary Devices

Literary devices, terms, and elements, definition of apostrophe, difference between apostrophe as a literary device and apostrophe as a punctuation mark, common examples of apostrophe.

Many of us are familiar with using apostrophe without realizing it. Apostrophe occurs we address our car on a cold day, either pleading with it to start or yelling at it when it doesn’t. Or perhaps we get an email from someone and start responding out loud, knowing that the person won’t hear the message. In this way, though apostrophe may seem unnatural in the context of plays and omniscient narrators addressing the audience, it is, in fact, perfectly natural in our daily lives. Apostrophe is also found in popular songs and other media. For example:

Significance of Apostrophe in Literature

Examples of apostrophe in literature.

JULIET: Yea, noise? Then I’ll be brief. O happy dagger! This is thy sheath; there rust, and let me die.

( Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare)

HAMLET: Alas, poor Yorick! I knew him, Horatio, a fellow of infinite jest, of most excellent fancy. He hath bore me on his back a thousand times, and now how abhorr’d in my imagination it is! My gorge rises at it.

ANTONY: O, pardon me, thou bleeding piece of earth, That I am meek and gentle with these butchers! Thou art the ruins of the noblest man That ever livèd in the tide of times.

( Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare)

Antony is addressing the bloody corpse of Julius Caesar and apologizing to it than he is not being more forceful with the men (“these butchers” who led to Caesar’s murder. Antony calls Caesar “thou bleeding piece of earth,” acknowledging that Caesar no longer has any power to respond. Yet Antony, overcome with remorse and grief, feels the need to both apologize to Caesar and praise Caesar’s virtues even after death.

Death, be not proud, though some have called thee Mighty and dreadful, for thou are not so; For those whom thou think’st thou dost overthrow Die not, poor Death, nor yet canst thou kill me.

Thou wast not born for death, immortal Bird! No hungry generations tread thee down; The voice I hear this passing night was heard In ancient days by emperor and clown…

And this I believe: that the free, exploring mind of the individual human is the most valuable thing in the world. And this I would fight for: the freedom of the mind to take any direction it wishes, undirected.

( East of Eden by John Steinbeck)

Test Your Knowledge of Apostrophe

1. Choose the correct definition of apostrophe as a literary device: A. A punctuation mark that stands in place of omitted letters. B. An exclamatory figure of speech when a character turns from addressing one party to another party or inanimate object. C. The act of omitting information necessary to the plot to keep readers guessing. [spoiler title=”Answer to Question #1″] Answer: B is the correct answer.[/spoiler]

Is this a dagger which I see before me, The handle toward my hand? Come, let me clutch thee. I have thee not, and yet I see thee still. Art thou not, fatal vision, sensible To feeling as to sight? Or art thou but A dagger of the mind, a false creation, Proceeding from the heat-oppressèd brain?

A. Macbeth is talking to a friend named Dagger. B. Macbeth is gripping a real dagger and telling a friend about its qualities. C. Macbeth is addressing an imaginary dagger and assigning it qualities. [spoiler title=”Answer to Question #2″] Answer: C is the best answer.[/spoiler]

3. Which of the following quotes from Herman Melville’s story “Bartleby, the Scrivener” is an example of apostrophe? A. Ah Bartleby! Ah Humanity! B. I would prefer not to. C. Nothing so aggravates an earnest person as a passive resistance. [spoiler title=”Answer to Question #3″] Answer: A is an example of apostrophe. B is the most famous line from the story, yet Bartleby addresses it to a person directing commands at him, and thus it is not apostrophe.[/spoiler]

Figures of Speech: The Apostrophe as a Literary Device

• An Introduction to Punctuation
• Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia
• M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester
• B.A., English, State University of New York

In addition to being a punctuation mark, an apostrophe is a  figure of speech in which some absent or nonexistent person or thing is addressed as if present and capable of understanding. Also known as a turne tale , aversio , and aversion , apostrophes are more often found in poetry than in  prose .

An apostrophe is a form of personification  that essayist Brendan McGuigan describes in "Rhetorical Devices" as "a forceful, emotional device" most ideally used in "creative writing and  persuasive  essays that lean heavily on emotional strength." However, McGuigan goes on to say that "in  formal  persuasive and informative essays, using apostrophe might seem a bit melodramatic and distracting."

To provide a bit of context, look no further than the famous poem by Jane Taylor turned modern-day nursery rhyme "The Star," written in 1806, which calls out to the celestial body of a star saying, "Twinkle, twinkle, little star,/How I wonder what you are." In this case, the apostrophe speaks directly to an inanimate star "up above the world so high," personifying it and pondering how it's doing.

The device is also used in the carol "Oh Christmas Tree" as people sing not only ​ about the cherished holiday topiary but to it.

Importance of Apostrophe in Poetry, Prose, and Song

As a form of  direct address  to an inanimate object, apostrophe serves to further poetic imagery and often emphasizes the emotional weight of objects in our everyday world. The figure of speech serves a vital function in everyone from Mary Shelley's works ( "Scoffing devil! Again do I vow vengeance" from "Frankenstein" to Simon & Garfunkel's hit smash "The Sound of Silence" ("Hello darkness, my old friend,/I’ve come to talk with you again").

Apostrophe happens in Shakespeare's "Sonnet 18" as the narrator starts out speaking to an absent "thee": "Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?" It also appears in the play "Hamlet" when the title character is in a rage about his mother marrying Claudius. Hamlet calls out to the abstraction "frailty" in Act 1: "Frailty, thy name is woman!"

In Edgar Allen Poe's works, he distinctly speaks to a raven sitting "upon the sculptured bust above his chamber door as if it could understand him in the poem of the same name, and in the poem "To One in Paradise," he starts out addressing his love (absent from the scene) thus: "Thou wast all that to me, love."

Just as in poetry, the literary device comes up in song often, such as any time that the words are directed to someone not able to hear. Or in addressing the inanimate. In the smash #1 hit by the doo-wop group the Marcels from 1961, the "Blue Moon" is addressed: "Blue moon, you saw me standing alone/without a dream in my heart, without a love of my own." 

Categorically, apostrophe fits into the English vernacular as part of the  irony  family alongside aporia—a figure of speech in which the speaker expresses real or simulated doubt on a topic—wherein the speaker of an apostrophe obviously understands that the subject cannot truly understand the words but instead uses the speech to emphasize his or her description of that object.

More Examples From Pop Culture

Next time you're watching your favorite television show, take a moment to see if you can spot any clever usage of apostrophes from the characters—you might be shocked at how often this figure of speech is utilized to help actors convey their messages to audiences.

Even as early as Grecian times when Homer wrote "The Odyssey," apostrophes were used as literary devices to break from addressing the primary audience to instead speak to a third party, with the relatively impersonal narrator occasionally butting in to break the third wall and inform the audience members of some plot device they may have missed. 

In modern times, television shows—especially comedies—often use this feature to call out to their audiences. Such is the case when characters on "Battlestar Galactica" call out "Frakking toasters" every time something goes wrong on the spaceship, with the toasters in questions being the humanoid Cylons whose goal is to destroy the remaining human population on board. 

When "Star Trek"'s Captain James Kirk waves his fist in the air and yells "Khaaan!" at his absent nemesis, that's also a use of apostrophe .

In the movie "Cast Away," to keep from losing his mind, the character Chuck Noland, played by Tom Hanks, talks to a volleyball, Wilson. Fortunately, it doesn't talk back.

Although most commonly used in spoken rhetoric, apostrophes can also come into play in written forms; such is the case in a famous example of a cigarette advertisement firm addressing young audiences in its ad—who couldn't buy the product—to appeal to older audiences who long to re-experience the proverbial "youth" the cigarette marketer was trying to sell.

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Apostrophe in Literature: Definition, Examples & Uses

What is an apostrophe in literature, how does an apostrophe function in literature, examples of apostrophe in literature, notable uses of apostrophe in plays, apostrophe in poetry, why use apostrophe in literature.

Imagine reading a book where the main character suddenly starts speaking to the wind or addressing a person who isn't even there. This might sound strange in real life, but in literature, it's a common technique called an apostrophe. And no, we're not talking about the punctuation mark! This blog is all about the definition of apostrophe (literary term), its uses, and examples. So, if you've ever wondered why authors have their characters talk to inanimate objects or absent people, you're in the right place.

Before we dive into the depths of literature, let's get a clear understanding of what an apostrophe is in this context. Remember, we're not talking about the little mark that shows possession or contraction in grammar!

Definition of Apostrophe

An apostrophe, when we're talking literature, refers to when a speaker in a play, poem, or prose directly addresses someone who isn't present, an inanimate object, or a concept. It might sound like a complex term, but you've probably come across it more times than you realize. To simplify the definition of apostrophe (literary term), think of it as the act of turning away from the audience or other characters to address a third party.

The Greek Origin

Like many literary terms, 'apostrophe' has its roots in Ancient Greece. Derived from the Greek word 'apostrephein', it literally means 'to turn away'. This makes sense when you think about it: the speaker is turning away from their current conversation to address someone or something else.

Not Just for Drama

While you might think the apostrophe is only used in highbrow literature or dramatic plays, you'd be surprised. It's found in all kinds of writing — from the grand soliloquies in Shakespeare's plays to the lyrics of your favorite songs. Yes, that's right. When Taylor Swift sings to an old flame or a memory, that's an apostrophe!

Simply put, the apostrophe is a tool that writers use to bring their thoughts and feelings to life, making their work more engaging and relatable. It's a way of breaking the fourth wall in literature, allowing characters to share their innermost thoughts and feelings directly with the readers.

Now that we've covered the basic definition of apostrophe (literary term), let's look at how it actually works in literature. What purpose does it serve? Why do authors use it? Here's the lowdown.

Expressing Emotion

An apostrophe is a great way for a writer to showcase a character's emotions. When a character addresses an absent person or an inanimate object, they're usually expressing deep feelings or thoughts. It's like they're thinking out loud, letting you, the reader, into their heart and mind.

Adding Dramatic Effect

Ever read a scene in a book that gave you goosebumps? The apostrophe might have something to do with it. By having a character speak directly to something that can't respond, a writer can create a sense of drama and tension. It's a way of making the reader pause and take notice.

Creating a Connection

When a character uses an apostrophe, they're speaking directly to you, the reader. This can create a powerful connection, making you feel like you're right there in the scene. It's a technique that makes literature more engaging and immersive.

Providing Insight

Finally, an apostrophe can give you a unique insight into a character's mind. It can reveal their hopes, fears, desires, and regrets. It's a window into their soul, allowing you to understand them on a deeper level.

In essence, the apostrophe is a versatile tool that writers can use to add depth and complexity to their work. It's a way of bringing characters to life and drawing readers into the story.

Having grasped the definition of apostrophe (literary term) and its function, let's now explore some classic examples from literature. These instances will give you a better sense of how authors use this technique to enrich their narratives.

Jane Eyre's Address to the Reader

In Charlotte Bronte's famous novel "Jane Eyre", the protagonist often uses apostrophe to speak directly to the reader. For instance, she says, "Reader, I married him." This direct address draws us into Jane's world, making her experiences feel personal and real.

Frankenstein's Lament

In Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein", the tormented creature uses apostrophe to express his anguish. "Oh, stars and clouds and winds, you are all against me!" This gives us a raw glimpse into the creature's psyche, emphasizing his isolation and despair.

Hamlet's Soliloquy

Shakespeare's plays are filled with examples of apostrophe, but perhaps the most famous is Hamlet's soliloquy. "To be or not to be, that is the question." Here, Hamlet is addressing the abstract concept of existence, revealing his inner turmoil and philosophical musings.

These examples illustrate the power of apostrophe in literature. It allows authors to dive deep into a character's thoughts and emotions, creating a more vivid and engaging reading experience.

Now that we've glimpsed some everyday examples of the definition of apostrophe (literary term), let's turn our attention to its use in plays. This format offers unique opportunities for apostrophe as characters often speak directly to the audience, breaking the fourth wall.

Macbeth's Dagger Scene

In William Shakespeare's "Macbeth", the title character uses apostrophe in the famous dagger scene. Macbeth, questioning his sanity, speaks to the vision of the dagger: "Is this a dagger which I see before me, the handle toward my hand?" This instance of apostrophe provides a dramatic effect - it's a powerful tool for revealing Macbeth's inner turmoil.

The Fool's Speech in King Lear

"King Lear", another Shakespearean play, uses apostrophe in the Fool's speeches. The Fool often addresses the audience directly, offering commentary on the action of the play: "This cold night will turn us all to fools and madmen." This use of apostrophe serves to connect the audience to the play's events, making them feel like part of the action.

Willy Loman in Death of a Salesman

Apostrophe isn't only found in Shakespeare. In Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman", the protagonist Willy Loman often speaks to characters who aren't present, such as his dead brother Ben. "Ben, how did you do it?" Through this, Miller uses apostrophe to reveal Willy's desperation and his struggle with reality.

As these examples show, the use of apostrophe in plays can create a deeper bond between the characters and the audience. It allows us to witness the characters' innermost thoughts and feelings, making the play more engaging and emotionally resonant.

Let's huddle around the warm hearth of poetry, a place where the definition of apostrophe (literary term) really shines. In the realm of poetry, the apostrophe technique often helps poets express deep emotions or create vivid imagery.

John Keats's "Bright Star"

John Keats, a beloved poet of the Romantic era, uses apostrophe in his sonnet "Bright Star". In the poem, Keats directly addresses a star, revealing his longing for eternal love: "Bright star, would I were stedfast as thou art." This apostrophe gives the poem an intimate and personal tone, as if Keats is sharing his innermost feelings with us.

Emily Dickinson's "A Bird Came Down the Walk"

Emily Dickinson’s “A Bird Came Down the Walk” also uses apostrophe. Here, Dickinson addresses an ordinary bird, capturing its actions with her pen: "Oh, Bird, come down the walk!" This use of apostrophe breathes life into the bird and invites readers to share Dickinson's gentle observation of nature.

Samuel Taylor Coleridge's "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner"

Samuel Taylor Coleridge's lengthy narrative poem "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner" is another brilliant example of using apostrophe in poetry. At one point, the Mariner, plagued by guilt, addresses the water snakes in the ocean: "O blessed living things!" Through apostrophe, Coleridge turns the water snakes into symbols of nature's beauty and innocence, amplifying the Mariner's remorse.

These instances of apostrophe in poetry illustrate how the technique can enhance the emotional depth and imagery of a poem. By addressing objects, animals, or abstract ideas directly, poets can make their works more relatable and emotionally charged.

So, you've learned about the definition of apostrophe (literary term), and you've seen it in action in poetry and plays. But why do writers bother with it? What makes apostrophe such a valuable tool in literature?

Firstly, apostrophe allows authors to express deep emotions. By speaking directly to an object or person, the author can convey feelings of love, anger, frustration, or longing. It's like having a heart-to-heart with your diary—sometimes, it's just easier to pour out your feelings when you're not really talking to anyone.

Creating Engagement

Secondly, apostrophe can make a piece of writing more engaging. Like a tour guide pointing out the sights, apostrophe draws the reader's attention to specific elements in the story. This can make the narrative more fascinating and memorable.

Adds Dramatic Effect

Lastly, apostrophe can add a dramatic effect. Imagine a character in a novel shouting at the sky or a poet serenading the moon. These moments make the reading experience richer and more impactful, don't they?

In conclusion, apostrophe serves as a powerful device in literature. It is not just a stylistic choice, but a tool that can evoke emotion, engage readers, and add drama. So, the next time you come across an apostrophe in a book or poem, take a moment to appreciate the writer's skill and creativity. Who knows, you might even find yourself inspired to use apostrophe in your own writing!

If you're fascinated by the use of apostrophe in literature and want to explore more about literary devices, be sure to check out the workshop ' Wordplay ' by Celina Rodriguez. This workshop will help you master various literary techniques, enriching your writing and deepening your understanding of the power of language.

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Apostrophe Literary Device — Definition and Examples

What is an apostrophe as a literary device.

An apostrophe is a literary device writers use to address someone or something that is not physically present. The subject may be dead, absent, inanimate, or abstract.

The literary device should not be confused with the punctuation mark. As a punctuation mark, the apostrophe forms contractions (e.g., cannot = can’t) or shows possession (e.g., Mike’s dog).

An apostrophe refers to an address to someone or something not physically present.

The subject being addressed can be dead, absent, inanimate, or abstract.

The literary device is used both in everyday language and literary works.

Apostrophe as a figure of speech does not relate to the apostrophe as a punctuation mark.

Functions of an apostrophe

The function of an apostrophe depends upon who or what is being addressed:

Apostrophe examples

The following examples illustrate the use of apostrophes in everyday speech, film, and music:

Apostrophe examples in poetry

Examples of apostrophes in poetry include the following:

Apostrophe examples in literature

Examples of apostrophes from literature include the following:

Apostrophes: When to Use Apostrophes in Writing (Examples)

This article is for you if you want to learn more about apostrophes and how to use them. You'll learn the rules around proper usage and avoiding the most common mistakes.

Apostrophes are symbols used with specific words to show possession, contractions, or omissions. 

This guide is part of our free online Grammar Book .

When to Use Apostrophes

Before we get into exactly how to use an apostrophe, let's first determine what it is. Though it's often included in the punctuation category, they are actually different from most punctuation marks, which often have the purpose of separating structural units. Take the comma , for example. It separates two clauses and shows you should take a pause between them.

Apostrophes don't do that. But they do clarify certain words and affect the meaning, so they have at least that in common with other punctuation . Let's take a look at the proper usage of apostrophes.

Contractions and Omissions

An apostrophe's first job is to stand in for omitted letters. That means you can literally leave some letters out and use an apostrophe instead .

Look at the following sentence, for example:

The kids are having a great time; they're playing in the park.

• Notice the apostrophe in the word 'they're.' You could also say 'they are,' but that's longer because it's two syllables instead of one. So we use apostrophes to shorten our sentences.

Here are some examples:

Excuse me, ma'am , is this your suitcase? Are you sure you're ok? It's all good, we're having a great time!

This also works for slang words like y'all , doin', and  ain't.

• You can also sometimes omit parts of a word in favor of an apostrophe. This is very common when writing years and decades.

Here's how that might look in practice:

1950s →'50s class of 2008 →class of '08

Top Tip!  Contractions are best kept for casual settings. In a formal setting, you should use the full, non-contracted words.

Form Possessive Nouns

The second biggest purpose of an apostrophe is to form a possessive noun . What's that? It's a noun that owns something. You can take any noun and make it possessive to talk about something that belongs to it. And in order to do that, you add an apostrophe and the letter 's.'

Let's take a look at some examples:

That man's accent is very strong. I can barely understand what he's saying. I'm off to the beach! Who's coming with me? Maria's mom called earlier.

As you can see, it works with proper and common nouns. It does not work, however, with possessive pronouns.

For example:

• You don't say her's; you say  hers .

Common Errors with Apostrophes

Hopefully, you'll agree that apostrophe usage rules are pretty straightforward. And yet, there are some common errors that people often make. So what are they, and why do they make them? And more importantly, how can they be avoided? Let's find out.

Confusing the Possessive and Plural Forms

A noun can be both possessive and plural, making it confusing to know how to use apostrophes with them. A plural noun is more than one thing, person, or animal. A possessive shows ownership.

• The difference is that you use an apostrophe with possessives but never plurals.

Here are some phrases where the apostrophe is commonly misused:

Do's and don't's ❌ Dos and don'ts ✅ Born in the 90's ❌ Born in the 90s ✅ My collection of CD's ❌ My collection of CDs ✅

As you can see, the overall problem is that an apostrophe is often used to make a noun plural.  Never use an apostrophe to make a noun plural. Only use an apostrophe to make a noun possessive. 

So ask yourself: does the noun you used refer to something's owner, or does it refer to more than one thing? If it's the former , use an apostrophe. If it's the latter , don't.

Look at the following sentences:

There are three boys in the sandpit. They are playing in the boy's sandpit.

The first example describes three boys, so that's a plural, which means no apostrophe. The second sentence describes the sandpit as belonging to the boy, so that's possessive, which means you should use an apostrophe.

Let's take a look at another example:

My brothers are older than me. My brother's bedroom is next to mine. My brother's eleven years old.

The first sentence contains the plural noun brothers (so no apostrophe), and the second sentence contains the possessive noun brother's (so use an apostrophe).

And this time, I complicated things by adding in the contraction apostrophe. That's in the third sentence; did you spot it? My brother's  stands for My brother is  here.

Using Plural Possessives

What about plural possessives? Well, it's a combination of a plural and a possessive, so you'll use the plural s  and the possessive s. For example, in the earlier sentence, " My brother's bedroom is next to mine, " implying  that only one brother lives in that room.

Look at the following sentence, where two or more brothers live in the room next door:

My brothers' bedroom is next to mine.

Here are a few more examples:

Why are toucans' beaks so huge? She won the Writers' Guild Award this year. I don't envy teachers' jobs; it's a tough gig!

Possessive Pronouns and Adjectives

Another area that often trips people up is possessive pronouns and adjectives . Since apostrophes are used to form possessives, it would make sense to use an apostrophe for a possessive pronoun or adjective, right?

I wish it were that simple, but the truth is that while you do use an apostrophe to form a possessive noun, you don't use one to form a possessive pronoun or adjective.

Here are some examples of common errors:

The dog chewed on it's bone for hours. ❌ The dog chewed on its bone for hours. ✅ The rest of the night was their's. ❌ The rest of the night was theirs. ✅ The job is your's if you want it. ❌ The job is yours if you want it. ✅

I'm going to list below all the possessive pronouns and adjectives. As you'll see, none of them contain apostrophes, and that's the way it should stay!

Let's start with the possessive pronouns:

And here are the possessive adjectives:

Concluding Thoughts on Apostrophes

And that concludes this article on the various uses of the apostrophe and how to avoid the most common mistakes.

Let's summarize what we've learned:

• Apostrophes are a form of punctuation , although they are a little different from most punctuation marks.
• You can use them to form contractions or possessive nouns.
• Never use them to form plural nouns.
• Don't use them with possessive pronouns and adjectives.

If you found this article helpful, you might like our Grammar Book , a free online database of grammar articles similar to this one. Check it out!

Learn More:

• Ellipses: When to Use Ellipses in Writing (Examples)
• Contractions: What Are Contractions? Definition and Examples
• Periods: When to Use Periods in Writing (Examples)
• Exclamation Points: When to Use Exclamation Points in Writing (Examples)
• Semicolons: When to Use Semicolons in Writing (Examples)
• Parentheses: When to Use Parentheses in Writing (Examples)
• Brackets: When to Use Brackets in Writing (Examples)
• Slash: When to Use Slash in Writing (Examples)
• Abbreviations: What Are Abbreviations? Definition and Examples
• Question Marks: When to Use Question Marks in Writing (Examples)
• Commas: When to Use Commas in Writing (Examples)
• Colons: When to Use Colons in Writing (Examples)
• What is a Plural Noun? Definition and Examples
• Verb Tense: What Is Verb Tense? Definition and Types (Examples)
• Imperative Sentences: What Are Imperative Sentences? Definition and Examples

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Apostrophe, in poetry, is a figure of speech in which a character or speaker addresses someone who is absent.

This could be a person they know or don’t know someone who is alive or dead, or someone who never existed at all. It might also be a non-human animal, an abstracted, but personified force, or even an object. Often, this technique is used when a speaker addresses a god or group of gods.

These disparate recipients of a speaker’s words are unified by the belief, on the part of the speaker, real or not, that whoever or whatever they are speaking to can hear and understand them. When writers make use of this technique it is often accompanied by escalations like “Oh!” or “Alas”.

The word “apostrophe” comes from the Greek meaning “turning back”. It was a technique used in works like Homer’s Odyssey. In these examples the narrator reasserts himself into the story, adding commentary or addressing a character, or even a god.

Purpose of Apostrophe

When a writer uses this technique they are able to give life to creatures, people, and objects that might otherwise seem flat and relatively unimportant. As with techniques such as personification and anthropomorphism , it helps the reader empathize with the recipient of the speaker’s words and understand it/them better.

Examples in Literature

Example #1 death be not proud by john donne.

This poem is one of nineteen sonnets included in Holy Sonnets or Divine Meditations, published after the poet’s death in 1633. Within this piece, Donne addresses “Death”. It is as a force personified. It can hear and understand the speaker. The force also has agency. Take a look at these lines and how Donne uses apostrophe to present the reader with an unusual image of death:

Death, be not proud, though some have called thee Mighty and dreadful, for thou art not so; For those whom thou think’st thou dost overthrow Die not, poor Death, nor yet canst thou kill me.

In these lines, Donne says very clearly that death is “not proud” even though some think that it is. There are many, throughout time and history, who have thought death to be “Mighty and dreadful”. It is through this work, as he continues to talk to death, that Donne explains that this is not the case.

Example #2 Ode to a Nightingale by John Keats

This is perhaps Keats’s best-known poem. It focuses on a nightingale the speaker sees, regards, and expresses his jealousy about. The creature lives a carefree life and he is inspired to do the same. With the text, he talks to the bird, around the bird, and simply to himself. Take a look at these lines from the middle of the poem:

Thou wast not born for death, immortal Bird! No hungry generations tread thee down; The voice I hear this passing night was heard In ancient days by emperor and clown: […]

He speakers reverentially to the creature, expressing his belief that it is, or should be, immortal. It has a kind of beauty and a presence that lives forever. The passage of time and the upcoming generations will not destroy “thee”. He knows, or claims to know, that the sound of the nightingale’s voice was the same voice heard “by emperor and clown” in the “ancient days”. By addressing the bird he is able to show his dedication to it and love for it. It also increases the importance of the nightingale in the reader’s mind.

Example #3 Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare

In this, Shakespeare’s most famous tragedy , there is a powerful and important use of apostrophe. It occurs towards the end of the play at the climax after Juliet has woken up from her deep sleep and found Romeo dead. Rather than go on living she decides to kill herself. Take a look at this line from the play where Juliet is speaking:

Yea, noise? Then I’ll be brief. O happy dagger! This is thy sheath; there rust, and let me die.

She speaks directly the dagger she is about to kill herself with. It is “happy,” she says. This is in reference to the ironic joy it will take in her death. Juliet feels completely alone in the world and by talking to the dagger she is able to explain her intentions and direct some of her sorrow outward. She also talks to it about its parts, its “sheath” and its “rust”. These simple features become important in the face of death.

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Apostrophe in Literature

In literature, apostrophe is known to be a figure of speech . A writer or the literary speaker who uses apostrophe is directly speaking to someone who is either not physically present, to someone who is dead, or to an inanimate object. So the next time you talk to your phone like it’s your most treasured possession, guess what, you’re using a figure of speech.

Generally speaking, apostrophe and other figures of speech are what we call literary devices. To further explain, the literary devices are techniques that a writer uses to produce a special effect in their  general writing . When you read a novel or a poem and the writer starts talking directly to abstract concepts like love, death, or hope as if they are standing right in front of them, if you do not know, you are seeing a speech example of an apostrophe. To know more, you may look at these apostrophe samples first.

What is Apostrophe in Literature?

Examples of apostrophe in literature.

• O Romeo, Romeo! Wherefore art thou Romeo?” – William Shakespeare
• “Death, be not proud, though some have called thee mighty and dreadful.” – John Donne
• “O Captain! My Captain! Our fearful trip is done.” – Walt Whitman
• “Twinkle, twinkle, little star, how I wonder what you are.” – Jane Taylor
• “O, pardon me, thou bleeding piece of earth.” – William Shakespeare
• “Is this a dagger which I see before me, the handle toward my hand?” – William Shakespeare
• “O cunning Love! with tears thou keep’st me blind.” – William Shakespeare
• “Roll on, thou deep and dark blue Ocean—roll!” – Lord Byron
• “O happy dagger! This is thy sheath; there rust, and let me die.” – William Shakespeare
• “O wild West Wind, thou breath of Autumn’s being.” – Percy Bysshe Shelley
• “O, she doth teach the torches to burn bright!” – William Shakespeare
• “O, how bitter a thing it is to look into happiness through another man’s eyes!” – William Shakespeare
• “Milton! Thou shouldst be living at this hour: England hath need of thee.” – William Wordsworth
• “Blow, winds, and crack your cheeks! Rage! Blow!” – William Shakespeare
• “O cruel, irreligious piety!” – John Milton
• “O Solitude! If I must with thee dwell.” – John Keats
• “O, for a draught of vintage! that hath been cool’d a long age in the deep-delved earth.” – John Keats
• “O, what a rogue and peasant slave am I!” – William Shakespeare
• “O God! O God!” – William Shakespeare
• “Bright star, would I were steadfast as thou art.” – John Keats

Basic Apostrophe Guide Example

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Apostrophe as Literary Technique Guide Example

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Simple Apostrophe Guide Example

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The Etymology of the Word Apostrophe

The word apostrophe comes from the Greek word “ apostrophé” which means “turning back” which is a common term in Greek literary drama and works such as in Homer’s  Odyssey.  However, in that novel’s case, the apostrophe was used to refer to times when a rather impersonal narrator intrudes in the storyline to provide additional information or some sort of commentary. You may also see alliteration examples in literature .

This simple writing technique is ubiquitous in old pieces of literature, and even in the literature of the nineteenth to mid-twentieth centuries. The apostrophe is used back then in cases where the writer uses an omniscient third-person point of view in his writing. The technique can be seen in most plays, but it can also be observed in a few poetry and prose pieces.

Apostrophe as a Literary Device and as a Punctuation Mark

Although they hold the same name, they play very different roles. Apostrophe as a punctuation mark that is used in contractions which refers to the process of omitting letters and sounds in a syllable, word or phrase. A few examples of these contracted terms include “I am” to “I’m,” “we have” to “we’ve,” or “do not” to “don’t.” On the other hand, the apostrophe can also pertain to a literary device. As mentioned earlier, this refers to a fictional character’s reference to an addressee who is not physically present in the scene. You may also check out meiosis examples .

Common Examples of Apostrophe

Apostrophe and figures of speech—hearing these words per discussed by your teacher or shared by your friend could be intimidating, leaving you with an impression that these terms are too fancy and poetic for your day-to-day interaction. However, apostrophes are actually used often more than you may have originally thought. You might also be interested in  onomatopoeia examples in literature .

If you still don’t believe that apostrophe is a usual part of your daily communication, there are various evident scenarios that would help you realize. First, remember those times you complained to your car when it refuses to start or those moments you begged to it to work long enough to take you to your office, the apostrophe was there. Also, when you shouted at your computer when it acts like a turtle, the apostrophe was also there.

Assuming that you are asked to cite some examples of an apostrophe, it could be very difficult for you to distinguish one. However, reflecting on your daily life and those absurdly weird moments when we talk or yell at things for some sort of reasons could make that task easy. To give you a broader overview, here are some of the most common apostrophes we utter without even realizing just how poetic we are being:

• “Oh, coffee, my sweet dark coffee. What would I do without you?”
• “Please, please clouds. Don’t rain today.”
• “Let Hades come to me and swallow me whole.”
• “Why do you have to be such a pain, math?”
• “Shoes, my beautiful new shoes. You’ll look great with my black plaid skirt.”

Take another look at these examples. They seem normal to us, right? Of course, we’d talk to our coffee. It’s every morning’s lifesaver. Of course, we’d beg the clouds to not rain. Who else are we going to talk to about it? And what’s wrong with asking math why it’s being so difficult, right? You may also check out irony examples for kids .

But if you really think about it, all of the subjects of these so-called normal statements are all inanimate. (Well, Hades is technically alive, but he is also, technically, not real, so he doesn’t count.) How normal is it to talk to things that don’t even have life, much less a mouth, to hear us, comprehend us, and respond to us? Apparently, very much so. You might be interested in balanced sentences usage and examples .

Apostrophe in Literature Guide Example

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Apostrophe in Poetry Guide Example

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Creative Apostrophe Guide Example

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Importance of Apostrophe in Literature

The Greeks who basically invented everything we now appreciate in this world (literature, art, and architecture, to name a few), used apostrophe as a part of the storytelling technique they used for their drama. And if the real founding fathers thought it necessary to incorporate apostrophe into their local theaters, then it must be a necessary element. You may also see antiphrasis examples .

Apostrophe gives the storyteller the chance to switch gears, to add his own commentary, and to simply state his feelings that have been awakened by inanimate or abstract concepts. Often, general statements and lines with apostrophes begin with the exclamatory sound “O,” which is used to signify a change in the addressee.

If 2 seconds ago, you were addressing Romeo, you can easily begin your next statement with “O” to tell your audience that you are no longer talking  to  Romeo but to somebody else, nobody can see. Death, for example. Such as in this famous scene in the classic play  Romeo and Juliet  by the literary master William Shakespeare. You may also like examples of assonance .

JULIET: Yea,  noise? Then I’ll be brief. O happy dagger! This is thy sheath; their rust, and let me die. 

These were the words that Juliet uttered when she awoke to Romeo’s dead body lying beside her. In this great example of the use of an apostrophe, we can see how Juliet talks to the dagger before she uses it to kill herself.

This dramatic scene is a symbol of Juliet’s incapability to talk to her lover who has just passed. So, to mark her final moment, she chooses to talk to an inanimate object because saying her goodbyes to Romeo is no longer possible. You may also check out examples of an oxymoron in sentences .

By addressing a person who is not present or an inanimate object who cannot feel or express emotions, a character can show his present state instead. We knew Juliet was suffering because of Romeo’s death. But we felt it more vividly when she started expressing her grief by talking to the dagger she would later use to take her own life. You might be interested in examples of sarcasm .

Apostrophe Importance Guide Example

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Apostrophe as Figure of Speech Guide Example

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Common Apostrophe Examples Guide

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Apostrophe Examples in Poems

An apostrophe is a figurative language that can be used to make a simple expression more creative. Hence, it is natural to see them in poems. Talking about that, here are some examples of poems that encompasses apostrophe.

Famous Poem Lines with Apostrophe Examples

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Apostrophe in Poem Guidelines Example

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Apostrophe: Lyric of Turning Away Example

Enhancing Apostrophe Poem Examples

Minimalist Apostrophe Poem Examples

Plain Apostrophe Guide

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Downloadable Apostrophe Guide Example

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Figurative Language: Apostrophe Worksheet Example

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Printable Apostrophe Example

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Basic Apostrophe Example

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Sample Apostrophe Example

Apostrophe Tip Sheet

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Apostrophe in PDF

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Simple Apostrophe Example

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Professional Apostrophe Example

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Formal Apostrophe Example

Apostrophe Template

How to Use Apostrophe in Literature

Using apostrophe in literature involves directly addressing an absent or imaginary person, an inanimate object, or an abstract idea as if it could respond

Choose Your Subject

Decide on what or whom you want to address. It could be an abstract idea like love or death, an inanimate object like the moon or a sword, or a person who is not present.

Create a Direct Addres

Write a line where the speaker talks directly to the chosen subject. Use “O” or “Oh” to start, though it’s not always necessary.

Express Strong Emotion

Use the apostrophe to convey strong emotions such as longing, admiration, anger, or despair. This helps to create a dramatic effect.

Personify the Subject

Treat the subject as if it has human qualities or the ability to respond. This personification can make your writing more vivid and engaging.

Tips for Using Apostrophe in Literature

• Use Vivid Imagery: Paint a clear picture with descriptive language.
• Express Strong Emotions: Convey intense feelings like longing, admiration, or despair.
• Personify the Subject: Give human traits to inanimate objects or abstract ideas.
• Ensure Contextual Relevance: Fit the apostrophe naturally within your work.
• Incorporate Rhetorical Questions: Use questions to engage readers and add depth.
• Utilize Repetition: Repeat key phrases for emphasis and rhythm.
• Maintain Consistency: Keep the tone and style uniform throughout your piece.
• Experiment with Placement: Try different positions within your work for the apostrophe.
• Blend with Other Devices: Combine apostrophe with metaphors, similes, or alliteration.
• Create Emotional Impact: Use apostrophe to heighten drama and connect with the reader’s emotions.

What is an Example of an Apostrophe in Literature?

An example is “O Death, where is thy sting?” from the Bible, addressing death as if it can hear and respond.

Why Do Authors Use Apostrophes in Literature?

Authors use apostrophes to convey strong emotions, address abstract concepts, and create dramatic or emotional effects in their writing.

How Is Apostrophe Used in Poetry?

In poetry, apostrophes address absent or imaginary entities, imbuing them with human traits to evoke emotion and enhance imagery.

How Do You Identify an Apostrophe in Literature?

Identify an apostrophe by looking for direct addresses to absent, imaginary, or non-human entities, often starting with “O” or “Oh.”

Is the Apostrophe Common in Academic Writing?

Apostrophes are rare in academic writing, which typically favors straightforward, formal language over dramatic or emotional expressions

What are some famous examples of apostrophes in literature?

Examples include “O Romeo, Romeo! Wherefore art thou Romeo?” by Shakespeare and “O Death, where is thy sting?” from the Bible.

Is the use of apostrophe limited to poetry?

No, apostrophes are found in poetry, drama, and prose. They are versatile and can be used in various forms of writing to convey emotion and dramatize the narrative.

How does an apostrophe differ from personification?

An apostrophe directly addresses an absent or non-human entity, while personification attributes human qualities to non-human things without necessarily addressing them directly.

Are apostrophes common in modern literature?

Apostrophes are less common in modern literature compared to classic works, but they are still used to add emotional depth and dramatic flair.

How does an apostrophe enhance a literary work?

Apostrophes enhance literary works by providing a means to express intense emotions, creating a direct connection between the speaker and the addressed entity, and adding dramatic intensity.

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The Other Kind of 'Apostrophe'

What to Know As a literary device, apostrophe refers to a speech or address to a person who is not present or to a personified object, such as Yorick's skull in Hamlet. It comes from the Greek word apostrephein which means "to turn away."

You are already familiar with the punctuation mark known as the apostrophe . It’s used chiefly in tandem with an s to indicate possession (as in Joe’s car ) or in contractions to stand in for letters that are elided (as in couldn’t or you’ll ).

Apostrophe's Other Use

If you study drama or rhetoric, you will be familiar with an entirely different idea of apostrophe —that is, the making of a speech or address to an absent person or a thing that is personified (such as Death).

As Love’s play begins, she stands tense and exhausted on her front porch, surrounded by red, rolling sky, pulling on a cigarette and staring into the void. She speaks aloud a letter she’s writing to someone called Ruby, then falters, turns the paper over, and begins to write to God instead. (Love’s play features an epigraph from Alice Walker’s The Color Purple , and the novel’s influence is present throughout, especially in Olivia’s apostrophes to God.) — Sara Holdren, Vulture , 15 Oct. 2018

'Trophe or not 'trophe

A commonly cited instance of apostrophe occurs in William Shakespeare’s Hamlet , when Hamlet comes across the skull of the jester Yorick, which has been exhumed. “Alas, poor Yorick!” he says, calling his old friend “a fellow of infinite jest, of most excellent fancy.” He then turns back to address Yorick by way of the skull:

Ham. Where be your gibes now? your gambols? your songs? your flashes of merriment, that were wont to set the table on a roar? — William Shakespeare, Hamlet

Apostrophe can consist of one speaking to an inanimate object—such as how Tom Hanks's character addresses the volleyball named Wilson in the film Cast Away (2000). It can occur as a figure of speech, as in the old advertising slogan "Calgon, take me away!"

Origin of 'Apostrophe'

The words for both the punctuation mark and the dramatic device come from a Greek verb, apostrephein , meaning “to turn away.” But they took slightly different paths en route to English, with the dramatic device passing through Latin and the punctuation through Late Latin and French.

The adjective apostrophic pertains to the dramatic device:

"Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Chicken" was, apparently, written with a total lack of irony. It includes a stanza full of apostrophic plea to meat substitutes: "Oh soy 'chicken,' where are your bones? / Where shall I get broth, rich in minerals? / Oh soy 'chicken,' where is your fat? / Without Jewish penicillin, how to cure my husband's cold?" — Kathleen Alcott, The New Yorker , 22 June 2015

The verb strephein , meaning “to turn” in Greek, is found in other words pertaining to the art of rhetoric. One is anastrophe (the inversion of the usual syntactical order of words for rhetorical effect), often referred to as Yoda-speak , for the sagacious Star Wars character known for speaking in object-subject-verb syntax. An example comes from Charles Dickens’s David Copperfield (1848): "Talent, Mr. Micawber has; capital, Mr. Micawber has not." Epistrophe is the repetition of a word or expression at the end of successive phrases, clauses, sentences, or verses (such as Abraham Lincoln's "of the people, by the people, for the people"). And we would be remiss if we didn’t bring up catastrophe , which to most people means an utter failure or disaster, but in theater refers to the final action that completes the unraveling of a dramatic plot.

And while we’d hate to end our article on apostrophe on such a catastrophic turn, them’s the breaks.

Want more? Read our list of Common rhetorical devices !

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A Complete Guide to Apostrophes and Names

• 3-minute read
• 27th January 2023

The apostrophe symbol (‘) is a handy bit of punctuation that’s used to make a noun possessive (e.g., the cat ’ s tail ) or to show that characters have been omitted, like with contractions (e.g., cannot → can ’ t ) or numbers (e.g., 1995 → ‘ 95 ).

While apostrophes serve many functions, they have rules, too. In today’s post, we’ll look at a few of those rules – particularly when using apostrophes with names.

Possessive Apostrophes With Names

To make a name possessive , an apostrophe followed by “s” is placed at the end of the name. For example:

If the name already ends in “s,” you have two choices: simply add an apostrophe by itself, or add the extra “s.” For example:

If the name is plural, then you should just add the apostrophe by itself to make it possessive. It should be at the end, not before the “s.” For example:

Contractions With Names

As we mentioned, apostrophes are also used to form contractions . Names can be part of contractions – most commonly with the verb “is.” For example:

Understandably, this can look confusing – an apostrophe followed by “s” after a name looks the same for a contraction and a possessive. However, the context will help us determine which meaning was intended. For example:

In this case, if “Abby’s” were a contraction, it would read “Abby is kids,” which makes no sense. Therefore, we can gather that this is a possessive form of the name.

Common Mistakes With Apostrophes and Names

To sum up, here are some of the key things to remember when using apostrophes with names:

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●  If the name is singular, you add an apostrophe followed by an “s” to the end of the name to show possession (e.g., Anne’s jewelry ).

●  If a name is singular but ends in an “s,” you always add an apostrophe after the name to show possession, but you can also add another “s” after the apostrophe if you prefer (e.g., Jess’ office OR Jess’s office ).

●  If the name is plural, simply add an apostrophe at the end to show possession (e.g., the Jones’ new baby).

●  Forming a contraction with a name also involves adding an apostrophe with an “s,” so be sure to check the context of the sentence to make the meaning clear.

Does the Use of Apostrophes With Names Differ in Formal and Informal Writing?

In both formal and informal writing, the rules are the same when using apostrophes with names, but contractions shouldn’t be used in formal writing. Additionally, since there is room for variation when adding an apostrophe and an “s” or just an apostrophe by itself to possessive nouns ending in “s,” be sure to maintain consistency and check with your style guide to see if there’s a preference.

Does the Use of Apostrophes With Names Differ in American and British English?

While American and British English have some variations regarding punctuation, the use of apostrophes with names follows the same rules for both. As before, though, always check with your style guide and ensure consistency.

Proofreading and Editing

We hope this post helps you to use apostrophes with names correctly. If you’re still having trouble, our experts can take a look at your work. We’ll even proofread the first 500 words for free!

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When to Use Apostrophes — Uses and Examples

The apostrophe is a punctuation mark that can trip us up occasionally. Perhaps you’ve had to write out a word that ends in an S, and you’ve been unsure if you should put an apostrophe in there. 

Generally, only use an apostrophe if you have a possessive or a contraction. Do not use apostrophes to form plurals of words. 

Of course, there are always exceptions, and we use apostrophes for the plurals of numbers and letters. We’ll discuss that below. In this article, we’ll cover the uses of the apostrophe and how to avoid apostrophe mistakes.

What Is an Apostrophe?

The apostrophe is one of many punctuation marks, signs, and symbols we use in writing, in addition to letters, such as periods, commas, and quotation marks.

It looks like a comma, a small curved shape, but unlike a comma, which goes on the bottom of the writing line — down here — apostrophes go up on the top of the writing line — up here .

When to Use Apostrophes

The apostrophe has three uses: to show possession, to show the omission of letters (contractions), and to form plurals of letters, numbers, and symbols . 

The apostrophe is not used to form plurals of words.

To Show Possession

The apostrophe is used to show possession, ownership, or belonging, as in the phrases below:

• Jack’s orchard
• The book’s pages

In these examples, we add ’s to the singular nouns Mary, Jack, and book.

For names that end in s, it can be correct to add ’s or just an apostrophe, depending on the style guide. For example

• CORRECT: James’s watch
• ALSO CORRECT: James’ watch

Be sure to consult your style guide.

To form the possessive of plurals , we have a couple of options. 

If the plural is irregular — that is, it does not end in s — add ’s :

• Children’s store
• Men’s clothing

If the plural ends in s , simply add an apostrophe:

• Three friends’ drinks
• All the farmers’ tractors
• The dogs’ snouts

To show possession by a pair or group, simply add ’s to the last item. For example:

• Ben and Joan’s apartment
• Lucinda and David’s kids

To Show Omission of Letters (Contractions)

Apostrophes are also used to show the omission of letters — when letters have been left out, as in contractions. For example:

• Don’t = do not
• I’d = I would
• He’s = he is or he has
• Would’ve = would have
• Let’s = Let us

We can also use apostrophes to show the omission of numbers at the beginning of years. For example, “the class of 2024” can become “the class of ’24 .”

To Form Plurals of Letters and Numbers (But Only These Things!)

While apostrophes are not used to form plurals of words, they are used to form the plurals of letters and numbers. 

For example:

• B’s = Martin got all B’s on his report card.
• 4’s = There are three 4’s in my phone number.

Having said all that, we do not use apostrophes for decades.

• INCORRECT: the 1980’s
• CORRECT: the 1980s

Examples of Apostrophes

Let’s look at some examples of apostrophes used correctly. We’ll throw in some plurals, too!

• The Acropolis is one of Greece’s biggest attractions.
• The restaurant was serving a chef’s special.
• Brad and Abbie’s car has run smoothly since ’76.
• The 1950s were a great time for women’s fashion.
• Apples and oranges are Lucinda’s favorite fruits.
• Wouldn’t you like to go to Gary’s house?
• I know that Brent’s here to help. (Contraction of Brent + is)
• Susan’s gone to the store. (Contraction of Susan + has)
• She doesn’t let anyone pick her tree’s lemons. (She has one lemon tree.)
• She doesn’t let anyone pick her trees’ lemons. (She has more than one lemon tree.)

Common Apostrophe Mistakes

The most common mistake in using apostrophes is in making plurals. To make words plural, we do not add an apostrophe. Look at these examples:

• INCORRECT: Free drink’s → CORRECT: free drinks
• INCORRECT: Hundred’s of used car’s → CORRECT: hundreds of used cars

Sometimes, we get tripped up by words that end in e, like “apostrophe.” But even then, we don’t use an apostrophe to form a plural.

• INCORRECT: Three apostrophe’s → CORRECT: three apostrophes
• INCORRECT: Two regular coffee’s → CORRECT: two regular coffees

Struggling with Apostrophes? EditorNinja’s Here to Help

Getting punctuation right in your writing is crucial for clear and effective communication. Many writers and content producers still occasionally trip up over apostrophes, which can result in content that confuses the reader or, even worse, makes them think you aren’t a credible source.

If apostrophes are becoming a problem, or you simply don’t want to worry about getting them wrong in the future, enlist EditorNinja’s professional editing services. We’ll ensure that your writing is clear, correct, and professional. Schedule a no-stress, no-risk, super-friendly discussion with our team to discuss your editing needs today!

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• Apostrophes | Definition, Guide, Rules & Examples

Apostrophes | Definition, Guide, Rules & Examples

Published on May 31, 2019 by Fiona Middleton . Revised on September 11, 2023.

Apostrophes have two main uses:

• Indicating possession (e.g., The student’s paper )
• Indicating a contraction (e.g., She’s writing a paper )

Contractions should be avoided in academic writing, but possessive apostrophes are used in all types of writing. Make sure to use them correctly, especially when dealing with plurals and abbreviations.

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Table of contents

Possessive apostrophes with singular nouns, possessive apostrophes with plural nouns, possessive pronouns, joint possession, contractions, apostrophes to form plurals, possessive pronouns vs contractions.

Apostrophes are used in possessive nouns to indicate that something belongs to something or someone else.

To indicate possession with a singular noun , add an apostrophe “s” ’s  at the end of the word. This also applies to names and other proper nouns .

• The car’s windscreen is foggy.
• Rome’s backstreets are charming.
• A series of actions led to Captain Cook’s demise.
• The princess’s role has become less traditional.

With proper nouns that ends in s , most style guides—including  APA and MLA —recommend adding ’s .

• Doris’s new haircut was alarming.
• Mr Jones’s  new dog won’t stop barking.
• The details of  Jesus’s  life remain a matter of debate.

Some guides allow you to add only an apostrophe in cases where the extra  s would be awkward to pronounce aloud. If in doubt, however, adding  ’ s  is the safest choice.

Note that when you are citing a source , the apostrophe is attached to the author’s name, not to the in-text citation .

• This paper builds on Adams (2017)’s research.
• This paper builds on Adams’s (2017) research.

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Most plural nouns already end in s . In this case, to indicate possession, add only an apostrophe to the end of the word. This also applies to words where the singular and the plural take the same form.

• The flood destroyed the beavers’ dam.
• We present new evidence of the pirates’ intentions.
• The two  species’  habitats are very different.

The same rule applies to proper nouns and singular entities that end with a plural noun.

• The  Smiths’  house is old and creaky.
• The  United States’  military budget is far larger than any other country ’ s.

If a plural noun does not end in s , add ’s as you would for a singular noun. This also applies to collective nouns , uncountable nouns and acronyms.

• The sheep’s wellbeing is a priority.
• The  children’s  toys were broken.
• Pollen’s harmful effects are well known.
• The ANC’s history is complex and controversial.

Pronouns stand in for nouns. Possessive pronouns (e.g., mine, yours, hers , his, our, their , its ) indicate that something belongs to someone or something. These pronouns do not take an apostrophe.

• Is this snake your’s?
• Is this snake yours ?
• The cat arched it’s back.
• The cat arched its back.

Indefinite pronouns (e.g., someone, something, anybody )  do take an apostrophe.

• Is this somebodys snake?
• Is this somebody’s snake?
• This match could be anybodys game.
• This match could be anybody’s game.

When multiple nouns jointly own one noun, an apostrophe is added after the last noun only.

• Frida and Diego’s love was complicated.
• This solution was first suggested in McDonald, Ferriss and Bane’s well-known research paper.

In these examples, the same love is possessed by both Frida and Diego, and the same research paper was written collectively by McDonald, Ferriss and Bane.

When multiple nouns individually own other nouns, however, add an apostrophe after all of the owning nouns.

• The scientist’s and the robot’s abilities were quite different.
• The freezing of pipelines is both the engineers’ and the operators’ problem.

In these examples, the scientist and the robot possess two different sets of abilities, and the engineers and the operators face two separate kinds of problem.

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Sometimes one or more letters are omitted to shorten a word or term. An apostrophe is used to indicate missing letters.

• It is → it’s
• She is → She’s
• Would not → wouldn’t

However, contractions are informal and are usually not appropriate to use in academic writing .

In English, an apostrophe should almost never be used to form a plural, including with acronyms and decades.

• My parents were born in the 1960’s. They both have PhD’s.
• My parents were born in the 1960s . They both have PhDs .

There are rare exceptions to this rule, such as pluralizing letters of the alphabet.

• Dot the i’s and cross the t’s .

One of the most common apostrophe mistakes is confusing possessive pronouns with contractions that look or sound similar. Always pay attention to whether an apostrophe is intended to indicate possession or a contraction, and remember that possessive pronouns don’t take apostrophes.

It’s vs. its

It’s is a contraction of it is .

• It’s unfortunate that wind turbines are expensive.

Its is a possessive pronoun indicating that something belongs to it .

• An automated system can correct its mistakes.

They’re vs. their

They’re is a contraction of  they are .

• The managers can’t see you because they’re in a meeting.

Their is a possessive pronoun indicating that something belongs to them .

• Jaguars drag their prey to secluded areas.

Who’s vs. whose

Who’s is a contraction of who is or  who has .

• It remains unclear who’s been setting these traps.

Whose is a possessive pronoun indicating that something belongs to them .

• It remains unclear whose idea this was.

Sources in this article

We strongly encourage students to use sources in their work. You can cite our article (APA Style) or take a deep dive into the articles below.

Middleton, F. (2023, September 11). Apostrophes | Definition, Guide, Rules & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved September 3, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/language-rules/apostrophes/

Butterfield, J. (Ed.). (2015).  Fowler’s dictionary of modern English usage  (4th ed.). Oxford University Press.

Garner, B. A. (2016).  Garner’s modern English usage (4th ed.). Oxford University Press.

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Using Apostrophes

The rules for using apostrophes.

• to show possession (e.g., dog's dinner )
• in time expressions (e.g., 2 years' pay )
• in contractions (e.g., isn't )
• to show awkward plurals, but only very awkward plural (e.g., i's and a's )

Table of Contents

Four Ways to Use Apostrophes

Three common mistakes with apostrophes, use of apostrophes explained in detail, (1) using apostrophes for possession, (2) using apostrophes in time expressions, (3) using apostrophes to replace letters in contractions, (4) using apostrophes in awkward plurals, using apostrophes incorrectly with plurals, video lesson, video on possessive apostrophes (a neat trick).

(1) To show possession.

Amazing Tip! The letters before the apostrophe always spell the possessor perfectly. So, in the first example, the letters before the apostrophe spell "dog" (not "dogs"). In the second, they spell "boys" (not "boy"). In the third, they spell "children" (not "childrens"). Look again. The letters before the apostrophe always spell the possessor perfectly. This is a 100% rule . If you remember it, you can ignore the seemingly complicated rules that follow.

(2) To write time expressions.

Amazing Tip! The rule above works for time expressions too! The letters before the apostrophe always spell the unit of time perfectly.

(3) To replace letters in contractions.

Amazing Tip! Some writers confuse contractions with normal words (e.g., it's with its , you're with your ). To prevent this error, expand the contraction to the full form (e.g., it is , you are ). If your sentence no longer makes sense, then the word you expanded was not a contraction and should not contain an apostrophe. Simple.

(4) To show awkward plurals.

Beware! Using an apostrophe for a plural is disliked by many writers, but it can be efficient. Showing an awkward plural with an apostrophe is condoned by all the leading grammar references.

(1) To show normal plurals.

(2) Randomly before the letter "s."

(3) Using a contraction incorrectly.

Does the apostrophe go before or after the "s"?

The Basic Rules

The 100% Rule: Everything to the left of the apostrophe is the possessor.

An exception to the rule: plural words that don't end "s"

Another exception to the rule: singular words that end "s"

Are You Good at Possessive Apostrophes?

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Apostrophe errors often occur when the plural form and the possessive form are confused. Additionally, apostrophes also tend to be used incorrectly with years.

Correcting the Problem

Rule to Remember

The apostrophe is used to indicate possessive case, contractions, and omitted letters.

The apostrophe is not strictly a punctuation mark, but more a part of a word to indicate possessive case, contractions, or omitted letters .

Possessives

Apostrophes are used to form the possessive form of a singular noun or a plural noun not ending in s by adding ' and an s at the end. If a plural noun ends in s , only ' should be added.

university's women's students'

If ownership of something is shared, use 's after the second owner.

If ownership of something is separate, use 's after each owner.

If ownership of something is shared, use 's after the second owner; otherwise, use 's after each owner.

Contractions

A contraction is one word that is formed by combing two words. As the two words are combined, a letter is (letters are) dropped and an apostrophe is added in its place. Usually, a pronoun and a verb are used when forming contractions.

The following is a list of common contractions:

'd when contracting would or had (he'd) 'm when contracting am (I'm) 's when contracting is or has (she's) 'll when contracting will (I'll) 're when contracting are (they're) 've when contracting have (we've) n't when negating some helping or linking verbs (wasn't, shouldn't)

Not is used to form negative contractions with many linking verbs. When making a negative contraction, omit the "o" in "not" and replace it with an apostrophe. The only exception to this rule is will not which contracts to form won't .

Numbers and Omissions

Numbers can be shortened by adding an apostrophe in place of the omitted number.

Be careful using abbreviations in formal writing. In most cases, it is best to spell the numbers out or write them as full numerals.

Plurals of Letters, Words, Numbers, and Signs

An apostrophe and s are also used to form the plural of letters, numbers, signs, and words referring to words.

When Do You NOT Need an Apostrophe?

With time periods and after numbers.

Do not add an apostrophe at the end of a number indicating a time period: 1960s, 1800s, etc.

After symbols:

After abbreviations:

With possessive pronouns:

its, hers, his, theirs, my, mine, ours, yours, whose

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• Poetic Devices

Apostrophe in Poetry: A Literary Device That Brings Inanimate Objects to Life

It’s amazing how the simple addition of an apostrophe can bring inanimate objects to life. I’m talking about its presence in poetry, when a poet uses it to give voice and emotion to something that is not alive. It’s a powerful literary device that allows poems to become more than just words on paper; they can be woven into stories with feelings and messages embedded within them.

The power of this tool has been used by writers throughout history, from Shakespeare to modern-day poets. Each one crafted their own unique versions of what an apostrophe could do for their work. In this article, we’ll explore how different authors have utilized these symbols in their writing and why they remain such an important feature of literature today.

Definition Of Apostrophe As A Poetic Device

Apostrophe is a literary device used in poetry to bring inanimate objects to life. It often involves the speaker directly addressing someone or something that isn’t present, as if they were alive and could respond. The apostrophe makes an object personified, allowing us to understand it on a deeper level than we otherwise would.

The use of apostrophe varies between poetic forms and stanzas, but it can also be seen throughout a poem’s analysis. In this figure of speech, the speaker addresses someone (or something) absent from the scene either out of respect, love, anger or admiration. This technique allows readers to relate more closely with what is being said – which might not be possible without the addition of an apostrophe.

Often times understanding how and why an author uses an apostrophe within their work requires further exploration into its meaning. By exploring how and when authors incorporate this tool into their works, readers are able to unlock greater insight and emotion behind the words written by some of our most beloved poets and writers.

Examples Of Apostrophe In Poetry

I’m always amazed by the way in which poets use apostrophe to bring inanimate objects to life. Personification, in particular, is a powerful tool that allows us to experience the world in a new way. Take, for example, the poem ‘The Wind’ by Robert Frost, where he describes the wind as ‘a wayward visitor’. It’s beautiful how Frost is able to make us feel as if the wind itself is alive and has an identity. Similarly, in William Wordsworth’s ‘The World is Too Much With Us’, he brings to life the inanimate objects of the ocean and the stars, describing them as ‘the world’s sharpness, nature’s sweet restorer’.

Personification

Personification is a powerful tool when it comes to apostrophe in poetry. It helps bring life and emotion to objects, allowing us to see them as something more than they are. For example, in Langston Hughes’s poem “Mother to Son,” he uses the personification of stairs that his mother has climbed: “Life for me ain’t been no crystal stair.” By comparing her experiences with those of climbing a difficult set of stairs, we can feel the struggles she’s gone through. We can also visualize how this climb has left its mark on her just by looking at these “dirty steps” she has taken—like dirty convict uniforms from years ago.

Likewise, Wilfred Owen’s “Dulce et Decorum Est” draws upon the power of personification when describing one soldier’s death due to gas poisoning: “His hanging face, like a devil’s sick of sin; if you could hear, at every jolt, the blood come gargling from the froth-corrupted lungs…” The use of personification here gives us an idea of what kind of horrors war brings forth—the fingers look like fatty waxworks melting away before our eyes and flashes of merriment wont to set the table on a roar turn into broken pieces creating a female shape outstretched in anguish as it breaks down in despair.

The ability to give life to inanimate things allows poets such as Hugo, Hughes and Owen to evoke emotions within their readers that wouldn’t be possible without using apostrophe and personification together. This combination works wonders with regards to conveying stories and messages through poetry which would otherwise be impossible or too abstract for people to understand. With cleverly crafted words and imagery, writers can create vivid landscapes and characters that show us how even seemingly meaningless items have feelings all their own.

Inanimate Objects

Using an apostrophe in poetry allows the writer or speaker to directly address either someone or something—whether it be a character, fellow of infinite jest, abstract concept, person or thing. This device has become increasingly popular over time and is often used for literary purposes such as letting the reader feel like they are part of the story by having them come to talk with the speaker. Poets use apostrophes to help you understand what’s being said while also addressing an absent entity that can’t actually hear and understand their words. For example, when William Wordsworth says ‘let me become a thousand winds’, he speaks directly to Nature instead of addressing an imaginary figure or entity being addressed. By doing this, the poet is able to create vivid landscapes and characters that show us how even seemingly meaningless items have feelings all their own. Through cleverly crafted words and imagery, readers can get a better understanding of what’s being communicated without relying on literal interpretations alone.

Understanding The Apostrophe As A Figure Of Speech

I’m sure you’ve heard of apostrophe in poetry, but what is it exactly? An apostrophe is a figure of speech that brings an inanimate object to life by addressing them as if they were alive. It’s used to make a poem more dramatic and evocative. As the name suggests, its root meaning comes from the Greek word “apostrophos,” which means “turning away”—as when a speaker turns their attention away from one thing (the audience) and speaks directly to something else (such as an animal or abstract concept).

We can find examples of this type of figurative language throughout literature. One famous example is John Donne’s “Death Be Not Proud,” where he addresses death as though it was a person: “Death, be not proud…/For thou art slave t’ Fate, Chance, kings, and desperate men…” Here we see how Donne uses apostrophe to bring death into the conversation by speaking directly to it.

Apostrophes are powerful because they give human qualities to non-human entities – whether it be nature, animals or objects. By doing so, writers create vivid images in our minds and evoke strong emotions in us. This makes for some truly beautiful pieces of writing that will stay with us forever!

The Power Of Personification In Poetry

Personification in poetry is a powerful literary device that allows writers to bring abstract ideas and inanimate objects to life. It gives readers the chance to explore thoughts and feelings without boundaries or limitations. An apostrophe refers specifically to when an author speaks directly to something that isn’t alive, such as nature or death. It creates a vivid image for readers of what the poet is attempting to convey through their work.

The power of personification within a poem can be seen from the examples given by Ernest Hemingway’s narrative style. He often wrote about his war experiences but used personification to make them more meaningful for the reader’s interpretation. For example, in “Soldier’s Home” he writes: “He heard how after they had been at the front they took baths in marble tubs and drank wine with chauffeurs driving them through crowds that cheered… But no one cheer him now.” This brings home the emptiness of returning soldiers who were not welcomed back with open arms, creating an emotional response in those reading it.

Using personification helps evoke emotions and create images which are hard to express otherwise. Whether its speaking directly to death or giving natural elements human-like behavior, it provides us with new ways of understanding our surroundings and ourselves on a deeper level. Here are some key takeaways you should remember: * Personification adds depth and emotion into literature; * Apostrophe is a form of personification where authors speak directly to something nonliving; * The works of Ernest Hemingway demonstrate effective usage of this technique; * Personification helps readers understand abstract concepts better.

No matter if we read poetry for pleasure, study literature academically or use it as part of creative writing exercises – understanding the power of personification will help us get more out of each literary work we encounter along our journey.

How To Use Apostrophe In Your Writing

Using apostrophe in your writing is a powerful tool. It brings the absent person or thing to life, and creates an emotional connection with the reader. Ernest Hemingway was a master of this technique, often juxtaposing images and ideas for maximum effect. Take his famous novel The Old Man and The Sea: “He always thought of the sea as ‘la mar’ which is what people call her in Spanish when they love her.” Here, Hemingway uses apostrophe to show how Santiago loves the sea – it’s tangible emotion that draws us into the story.

Apostrophe can be used in any genre; poetry, fiction, even non-fiction. In non-fiction, you might use it to evoke empathy from your readers. For example, if you were writing about deforestation you could say something like “The trees cried out as their homes were destroyed,” using apostrophe to make readers feel the tragedy of those poor trees being torn down. You can also use it in dialogue between characters to add depth and realism – rather than having them simply speak directly at each other, have one character address someone or something not present in order to convey subtle emotions.

In short, apostrophe adds human elements to otherwise static objects by bringing them alive through language and imagery. Whether you’re creating drama or evoking empathy, it’s a great way to bring stories off the page and into our hearts.

The Role Of Apostrophe In Bringing Objects To Life

I’m fascinated by the power of apostrophe in poetry. It comes from the Greek meaning “turning away,” which is quite fitting when you consider how it brings objects to life. Apostrophe enables us to personify things that can’t speak for themselves, allowing them to tell their story in a way that only humans could understand.

Take, for example, a flower blooming on a summer day—the poet might use apostrophe to give this creature a voice, describing its beauty and fragility as if they were speaking in first-person narrative. This gives readers an intimate connection with the object itself and helps them appreciate its significance beyond what words alone are able to convey.

Apostrophe allows poets to explore emotions and ideas otherwise impossible to express through conventional language. And while at times it may be used simply as a tool of convenience, there’s something truly special about giving life and character to inanimate objects – something I believe we all have an innate desire to connect with.

Types Of Objects Often Addressed In Apostrophe

Apostrophe in poetry often involves addressing inanimate objects as if they were alive. Bringing a sense of animation and life to the words, this figure of speech is a powerful tool for poets. Take for example William Wordsworth’s poem “The World Is Too Much With Us”:

“Great God! I’d rather be/ A Pagan suckled in a creed outworn;/ So might I, standing on this pleasant lea,/ Have glimpses that would make me less forlorn.”

Here we see Wordsworth directly address an ancient pagan religion as well as nature itself with his plea to have “glimpses” that will bring him solace. By using apostrophe he brings these things to life through his own longing. It’s also used by authors such as Emily Dickinson who wrote “I heard a Fly buzz – when I died”. In this poem she creates imagery around death by speaking to the fly buzzing near her at the moment of her passing away. Allowing readers to identify emotionally with what can sometimes seem like abstract concepts or ideas, apostrophes are found throughout literature and evoke empathy from all those reading them.

Techniques For Using Apostrophe Effectively In Poetry

As we discussed, there are a variety of objects that can be addressed in apostrophe. From nature to the supernatural, all sorts of things can be brought to life through this powerful literary device. Now let’s explore some techniques for using apostrophe effectively in poetry .

For starters, it’s important to remember why you’re writing; keep your intentions clear and present throughout the piece. As Hemingway once wrote: “All you have to do is write one true sentence. Write the truest sentence that you know.” This sentiment applies well to those crafting poems with an apostrophe – focusing on truth and sincerity will always result in a better poem than if you try to manipulate or contort your words too much.

You should also consider how the object being addressed would respond back. If it were alive, what might it say? How might its voice sound? By imagining these scenarios as you compose your poem, you’ll get closer and closer to creating something truly meaningful and unique. Ultimately, bringing an object (or multiple objects) to life in verse requires care and thoughtfulness from the writer – but done correctly, it can create a truly memorable experience for both the poet and their readers alike.

The Impact Of Apostrophe On The Reader’s Experience

The use of apostrophe in poetry can be likened to a songbird, which sets the tone for an experience filled with delight and wonder. It is like a spark that lights up the darkness, bringing hope and joy to even the dreariest moments. The reader’s journey through such works of art has been profoundly impacted by this technique, as it brings forth emotion, passion and depth beyond what words alone could ever express.

When we read poems containing apostrophes, there is a special kind of magic that comes alive. We become immersed in stories that speak directly to our hearts and souls; allowing us to connect deeply with characters or situations without having to rely on literal meanings or explanations. This creates a powerful experience for readers because they are able to identify with emotions expressed within these works on an intimate level.

Apostrophe also allows authors to explore ideas from original perspectives – something that would otherwise remain hidden behind mundane language. Through vivid descriptions created using personification, metaphor and symbolism, poets can craft complex narratives that captivate their audiences in ways never before thought possible. By giving life to objects inanimate, they open up new worlds of understanding and appreciation for all who dare venture into them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between apostrophe and personification in poetry.

Apostrophe and personification in poetry are two literary devices that can be easily confused. While both involve giving a human quality to an inanimate object or abstract concept, apostrophe involves directly addressing the thing being described, while personification is more subtle, describing the thing as if it were alive or had feelings. For example, when using apostrophe, one might say “O Death, where is thy sting?” Here, death itself is being addressed directly. On the other hand, with personification one might describe a stormy sky as “angry,” which implies life but doesn’t address any particular element of it directly.

Are There Any Contemporary Examples Of Apostrophe In Poetry?

Apostrophe in poetry is a powerful tool that’s seeing a resurgence in modern writing. Contemporary examples can be found all over the literary scene, from popular poets like Amanda Lovelace to spoken word performers such as Sarah Kay. In each case, they’re using apostrophe to bring life and emotion to otherwise lifeless objects or ideas — allowing readers to feel an emotional connection with them. Whether it’s used for humor, sorrow, joy, or anger, apostrophe has become an essential part of today’s poetry landscape.

Are There Any Rules Or Guidelines For Using Apostrophe In Poetry?

Using apostrophe in poetry is a great way to bring an extra layer of emotion and life to your work. However, it can be tricky to use correctly. To get the most out of this technique, make sure you consider certain rules and guidelines such as being mindful of not overusing it, varying its usage for different effects, and keeping track of rhythm and meter. It’s important to remember that there are no strict rules on how to use apostrophe – creativity is key! With some practice, you’ll soon find yourself crafting beautiful pieces full of life and character.

How Can Apostrophe Be Used In Other Forms Of Writing Such As Novels And Short Stories?

Apostrophe can be a powerful tool in novels and short stories, allowing authors to bring the story alive through vivid descriptions. It’s a way of taking readers into the minds of characters, allowing them to feel their emotions and understand their motivations more deeply. In Hemingway-style writing, apostrophes are used sparingly but effectively; they highlight key moments that help move the plot forward or reveal something about a character. They can also provide insight into how those characters view themselves or others, making for compelling dialogue and an engaging reading experience.

Is There A Difference Between Apostrophe In Classical And Modern Poetry?

Apostrophe in classical and modern poetry may not be all that different on the surface, but a deeper look reveals subtle nuances between them. The classic poet often used apostrophe to call out to divine beings or gods while modern poets use it to bring life and feelings to abstract concepts such as love, loss, beauty, or death. Both styles of writing can evoke powerful emotions from readers and create beautiful imagery when done correctly.

The power of apostrophe in poetry is undeniable. It brings life to the words and allows the reader to truly connect with what they are reading. In a way, it’s like nothing else – no other literary device can achieve this level of human emotion and connection. To me, there is something magical about being able to bring an inanimate object or idea to life through words. It feels almost like magic; I am consistently amazed by how powerful these tiny devices can be!

Apostrophe has been used for centuries, from classic works of literature to modern day poetry; its influence is evident everywhere we look. Its ability to turn abstract thoughts into tangible realities makes it an invaluable tool for any writer looking to create emotionally evocative work that resonates with their readers. By mastering the use of apostrophe, you too can create beautiful pieces that will stand out from all the rest!

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