NAQT Poetry Practice Test

Remove ads, get exclusive features. Starting from $7.99

Question: 1 / 400

What literary technique is prominently used in Hughes’ line "Does it dry up / like a raisin in the sun?"

Metaphor

Personification

Simile

In Hughes' line "Does it dry up / like a raisin in the sun?" the literary technique prominently used is a simile. A simile directly compares two different things using the words "like" or "as" to illustrate an idea or evoke imagery. In this case, the comparison of the drying up of a dream to a raisin in the sun evokes a vivid image of something shriveling or losing vitality, enhancing the theme of dreams and aspirations withering over time.

The use of "like" clearly signals that this is a simile, as it explicitly draws a connection between two disparate elements—the abstract concept of a dream and the concrete image of a raisin. This comparison effectively communicates the emotional weight behind the idea of dreams that do not come to fruition, highlighting a sense of loss and disappointment. Understanding this aspect of the line enriches the interpretation of Hughes' work, as it encapsulates broader themes of struggle and the fragility of hope.

NAQT Poetry Practice Test

Get the latest from Examzify