As an expert in the field of literature and poetics, I can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of what constitutes a sound device. Sound devices are indeed elements of literature and poetry that are used to emphasize sound, creating aural effects that can enhance the reader's experience and convey deeper meanings or emotions. Let's delve into the various types of sound devices and their functions within literary works.

Alliteration is one of the most recognized sound devices. It involves the repetition of initial sounds or consonants in a series of words that are close together, usually within a line or phrase. Alliteration can create a rhythmic pattern that makes the text more memorable and can also serve to highlight certain words or ideas. For example, in the line from Robert Frost's poem "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening," "The woods are lovely, dark and deep," the repetition of the 'w' and 'd' sounds contributes to the overall atmosphere of the poem.

Assonance is another sound device that involves the repetition of vowel sounds in nearby words. It can create a subtle harmony within a text, often used to reinforce a particular mood or tone. For instance, in the phrase "rain reigns again," the repetition of the 'ai' sound in 'rain' and 'reigns' adds a musical quality to the text.

Rhyme is a well-known sound device where the final sounds of two or more words are made to be similar or identical. Rhymes can be end rhymes, occurring at the end of lines in poetry, or internal rhymes, where they occur within a line. Rhymes can add a sense of unity and coherence to a poem, and they can also provide a pleasing auditory effect for the reader.

Rhythm refers to the pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in a line of verse. Rhythm can be regular, as in a strict metrical pattern, or it can be free, following no set rules. The rhythm of a poem can greatly affect the mood and pacing, influencing how the reader perceives the text.

Onomatopoeia is a sound device where a word not only describes a sound but also imitates it. Words like "buzz," "hiss," and "crack" are examples of onomatopoeia. This device can make a poem or a piece of prose more vivid and engaging by allowing the reader to hear the sounds being described.

Consonance is the repetition of consonant sounds in nearby words, often found in stressed syllables. It can create a rich, sonorous effect and is often used in combination with other sound devices to enhance the overall texture of the language.

Oxymoron is a figure of speech where two seemingly contradictory terms are combined to produce a special effect. While not strictly a sound device, it can be considered a form of sound play, as the juxtaposition of words can create a striking auditory contrast.

Pararhyme, also known as slant rhyme or half rhyme, is a less strict form of rhyme where the words share some, but not all, of their sounds. This can create a more nuanced and complex auditory experience.

Understanding and using sound devices effectively can greatly enhance the quality of a literary work. They can add depth, create memorable moments, and engage readers on a sensory level that goes beyond the literal meaning of the words.

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Sound devices are elements of literature and poetry that emphasize sound. There are a few different types of sound devices including alliteration, rhyme schemes and rhythm. Alliteration is the repetition of constant sounds. ... So, the first is alliteration and that's the repetition of consonant sounds and nearby words.read more >>