Allusion is an example of Figurative Language Allusion is a brief reference to a person, event, place (real or fictitious), or to a work of art.

Cartoons often allude to other things. What is the allusion in this cartoon?

What audience is the artist trying to target in this cartoon?

What is the allusion? What did you have to know to understand this cartoon?

Some other cartoon allusions. As you view the following, make sure that you understand the allusion and the meaning as you analyze.

Moses as a child.

Allusions in literature help the reader more easily visualize what is occurring. "As the cave's roof collapsed, he was swallowed up in the dust like Jonah, and only his frantic scrabbling behind a wall of rock indicated that there was anyone still alive". The allusion in the sentence above is to Jonah. The reader is expected to recognize the reference to Jonah and the whale, which should evoke an image of being 'swallowed alive‘... in this case, behind a wall of dust and rock.

Biscuit by Jane Kenyon The dog has cleaned his bowl and his reward is a biscuit, which I put in his mouth like a priest offering the host. I can’t bear that trusting face! he asks for bread, expects bread, and I in my power might have given him a stone. What is the allusion found in this poem? Why is it powerful? What is the theme of this poem?

Allusion Biscuit by Jane Kenyon The dog has cleaned his bowl and his reward is a biscuit, which I put in his mouth like a priest offering the host. I can’t bear that trusting face! he asks for bread, expects bread, and I in my power might have given him a stone. Possible themes: Blind faith of someone requires huge responsibility on our part. We have a responsibility to those that rely on and trust us. Like a priest offering the host

Common Allusions My brother tricked me and ran just like Road Runner. Chris H. in Grade 7 at Lufkin Road Middle School "I am afraid of spiders, but I'm no cowardly lion!" from Emily in Grade 6 at Worsley School. "I think that's a Mickey Mouse idea.“ No author listed.

Many allusions are biblical or mythological, but they don’t have to be. Popular culture terms are often used in allusions.

1.The couple in the hallway kissing each other remind me of … 2.Most basketball players would agree… 3.Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. That is what I think as I look at Sally, she is… A.I want to be like Mike. B.Romeo and Juliet. C.Enigmatic like the Mona Lisa.

One of the most important parts of allusion is recognition by the reader of the allusive text. When creating an allusion, try to use text that is well-known by the reader. Choosing a college that is right for you can be difficult. One thing to remember is the porridge rule. This will take some of the worry out of your decision. What is being alluded to?

A few more Well, I hate to speak poorly of any instructor, but come on, he’s Methuselah. Don’t mess with Jesse. One minute she’s Snow White and the next, the Incredible Hulk. That is a real Cinderella story. I’ve always wanted to be a dancer, but I’ve never been able to master it. Just call me Inspector Clouseau.

You have now seen some examples of allusions. It is time to write a few of your own. You must complete five allusions. They must be clear, accurate, and understandable. Here are some possible topics. ParentsSunriseAnimals Driving a carFriendsPrison FoodLoveMurder LoyaltyTruthMayhem

Ending thoughts… An allusion can be simple or complex, but it is never worthwhile if the reader does not understand the reference. A teacher can only teach so much material. Allusion can come from anywhere. You need to have the tools to deal with allusion independently.

Larson, G. (1984). The Far Side Gallery. Kansas City: Andrews McMeel Publishing, LLC.