What is alliteration?

Alliteration refers specifically to the repetition of initial consonant sounds in a series of words, which can create rhythm, enhance mood, and contribute to the overall impact of the language in poetry and prose. This technique is commonly used to draw attention to particular phrases and can help to unify verses or lines of text, making them more memorable.

For example, in the phrase "She sells sea shells by the sea shore," the repetition of the 's' sound creates a musical quality that engages the reader or listener. This stylistic choice can add a playful tone, emphasize themes, or deepen the emotional resonance of the writing.

Understanding alliteration is important not only for analyzing literature but also for employing it in one's own writing to achieve a desired effect or emphasis.