Consonance
The repetition of consonant sounds within or at the end of words in close proximity, creating sonic patterns and emphasis. Unlike alliteration (which repeats initial consonants), consonance can occur at any point in a word.
Real World
In Emily Dickinson's 'I felt a Funeral, in my Brain', the repeated 'n' and 'ng' consonance in 'treading — treading' and 'beating — beating' creates a dull, heavy rhythm that physically echoes the relentless pounding she describes.
Exam Focus
Clarify that consonance differs from alliteration by occurring mid-word or end-word — examiners reward this distinction.
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