MYP English Lang & Lit Duality, Conflict and Symbolism Key Definitions

The readers or viewers a text is intended for, who influence the content, tone, and language choices.

A **connotation** is the set of feelings and associations a word or image carries (for example, honey may suggest sweetness and warmth).

A technique that highlights differences between two ideas, groups, or situations to strengthen a persuasive message.

A metaphor for something that brings both positive and negative effects, often creating opportunity and risk at the same time.

The idea that one subject can contain two contrasting sides or meanings at the same time (for example, something that creates both benefits and harms).

An explanation of what a text means, based on evidence such as the literary choices a writer has made. Interpretation uses higher-level thinking (analysis, evaluation, synthesis) to argue for possible meanings and purposes.

Who or what is telling the story.

An object, image, color, setting detail, or action that stands for something beyond its literal meaning, often an abstract idea such as peace, life, or death.