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AP English Literature
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Table of Contents
Unit 5 Overview: Structure and Figurative Language
5.1 Traits of closed and open structures in poetry
5.2 Use of techniques like imagery and hyperbole
5.3 Types of comparisons in poetry including personification and allusion
5.4 Identifying and interpreting extended metaphors

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Unit 5 Overview: Structure and Figurative Language

Verified for the 2025 AP English Literature exam•Citation:

Introduction

Welcome to Unit 5! This is the second poetry focused unit (think back to Unit 2, Poetry I). In this unit, we’ll focus on the ways structures, literary techniques, and comparison, can help us understand texts.

Let’s get into an overview of the unit.

5.1 Traits of closed and open structures in poetry

Important Skills:

  • Explain the function of structure in a text.
  • Identify closed structures of poetry.
  • Identify open structures of poetry.

In this guide, we’ll be looking at the difference between closed and open forms of structures. We’ll look at the obvious differences and the more nuanced differences (like the way each contributes to reader interpretation of the poem).

5.2 Use of techniques like imagery and hyperbole

Important Skills:

  • Distinguish between the literal and figurative meanings of words and phrases.
  • Explain the function of specific words and phrases in a text (including hyperbole and understatement).
  • Identify and explain the function of an image or imagery.

In guide 5.2, we’ll analyze the various ways poets use literary devices in order to invite readers to read figuratively. These include words with dual meanings, hyperboles, understatements, and imagery.

5.3 Types of comparisons in poetry including personification and allusion

Important Skills:

  • Identify and explain the function of personification.
  • Identify and explain the function of an allusion.

In this guide, we’ll look at two main types of comparisons writers use: personification and allusion. You’ll read about examples of each and learn how they contribute to the poem’s greater meaning and author’s purpose.

5.4 Identifying and interpreting extended metaphors

Important Skills:

  • Identify and explain the function of a metaphor.
  • Interpret an extended metaphor.

In guide 5.4, we’ll continue the theme of literary tools started in guide 5.2. In this one, we’ll explore metaphors in depth. You’ll be introduced to the idea of an extended metaphor.

Conclusion

Those are the four pathways of Unit 5! Read on to learn more about each and better analyze poems.

Key Terms to Review (9)

Allusion: Allusion is when an author makes an indirect reference to another work of literature, historical event, myth, or famous person. It adds depth and layers of meaning to the text by connecting it to something familiar.
Closed structures in poetry: Closed structures in poetry refer to poetic forms that have a specific and predetermined structure, such as sonnets or haikus. These forms often have strict rules regarding rhyme scheme, meter, and line length.
Extended Metaphor: An extended metaphor is a metaphor that continues throughout multiple sentences, paragraphs, or even an entire work. It helps create deeper meaning and adds richness to the text.
Hyperbole: Hyperbole is an exaggerated statement or claim that is not meant to be taken literally. It is often used for emphasis or to create humor.
Imagery: Imagery refers to vivid and descriptive language that appeals to our senses (sight, sound, taste, touch, smell) in order to create mental images and evoke emotions in the reader.
Metaphor: A figure of speech that compares two unlike things by stating that one thing is another, without using the words "like" or "as". It creates a vivid image in the reader's mind.
Open structures in poetry: Open structures in poetry refer to poetic forms that do not follow strict rules or patterns. Poets have more freedom to experiment with line breaks, stanza lengths, and other elements of form.
Personification: Personification is when non-human objects or abstract ideas are given human qualities or characteristics. It allows readers to relate to these objects or ideas on a deeper level.
Understatement: Understatement is a figure of speech where the speaker intentionally downplays the significance or exaggerates less than what is actually true, often for comedic effect or to create emphasis.
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5.1 Traits of closed and open structures in poetry