What are some examples of parallelism (parallel structure) in a novel?
1 Answer
The boss said, “You need to work hard and be efficient to get a promotion.”
The political leader said, “The present government has ruined the economy; it has ruined the education system; and it has ruined the health system of our country.”
Explanation:
Parallelism examples are found in literary works as well as in ordinary conversations.
This method adds balance and rhythm to sentences, giving ideas a smoother flow and thus persuasiveness, because of the repetition it employs. For example, “Alice ran into the room, into the garden, and into our hearts.” We see the repetition of a phrase that not only gives the sentence a balance, but rhythm and flow as well.
This repetition can also occur in similarly structured clauses, such as, “Whenever you need me, wherever you need me, I will be there for you.”
Explanation and examples of simple forms:
https://literarydevices.net/parallelism/
Parallel structure means using the same pattern of words to show that two or more ideas have the same level of importance. This can happen at the word, phrase, or clause level. The usual way to join parallel structures is with the use of coordinating conjunctions such as "and" or "or."
Example:
Not Parallel:
The salesman expected that he would present his product at the meeting, that there would be time for him to show his slide presentation, and that questions would be asked by prospective buyers. (passive)
Parallel:
The salesman expected that he would present his product at the meeting, that there would be time for him to show his slide presentation, and that prospective buyers would ask him questions.
