Did you catch the reference?

Definition Allusion – a reference to another work intended to borrow an important theme or quality from the original to add to the new work.

More definition Allusions often refer to the Bible or other religions, historical people or events, or literary works (books, poems, plays), sometimes even songs. Some allusions refer to pop culture (movies, pop songs, celebrities).

Examples A football player throws a “Hail Mary” pass – a reference to religion. We’re to understand the desperation that causes some people to pray to be the desperation he felt when throwing the pass. A character in a show strikes a Michael Jackson pose. The character is borrowing MJ’s coolness and style.

One more The action hero almost loses his hat, but rescues it just before the door closes – just like Indiana Jones did. We’re meant to see this action hero as daring – and lucky – as Indiana Jones.

MY RECENT FAVORITE… In “The Avengers” when Ironman is about to fly Hawkeye up to the top of the building so he can shoot his arrows at the incoming alien baddies, he tells him, “Clench up, Legolas” which is a reference to…

WATCH OUT! Allusions and parodies are NOT the same! While both are referencing something well known, a parody is going for humor while an allusion may not be. Also, parodies are fairly blatant; allusions are more subtle.

Clips to watch on YouTube Put each of these in the search box to get the exact clip you need to see:  Volkswagen “The Force” commercial  Dodge George Washington commercial  Seinfeld Season 6 Episode 6-Mr Pitt's Speech  Avengers “Flying Monkeys” scene  Toy Story 2 Movie References