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Can verb agreement inconsistency be used as a literary device?

Alayna Macilhench

and creativity.

As a user of social media, I must admit that the question of whether verb agreement inconsistency can be used as a literary device intrigued me. At first glance, it seems counterintuitive to intentionally misuse grammar and syntax in the realm of literature. However, upon further reflection, I think it's safe to say that in the right hands, verb agreement inconsistency can certainly be a powerful literary tool.

One way in which verb agreement inconsistency can be used effectively is to convey a sense of the speaker's or writer's emotional state. In moments of extreme stress or passion, people often speak or write in fragments, omitting or changing words as they try to convey a message that is urgent or overwhelming. By using inconsistent verb agreement, a writer or speaker can mimic this sense of urgency or excitement, giving readers a visceral experience of the emotions being expressed.

Another way in which verb agreement inconsistency can be used as a literary device is to convey a sense of character. Just as people have different speech patterns and styles in real life, fictional characters can be given unique voices through their use of language. By varying the consistency of their verb agreement, a writer can create a character who is quirky, aloof, or otherwise distinctive. In this way, inconsistent verb agreement can be used as a subtle but potent means of characterization.

Of course, it's important to note that using verb agreement inconsistency as a literary device is not without its risks. Too much inconsistency can be confusing or distracting for readers, pulling them out of the story or poem and causing them to focus on the mechanics of the language rather than the content. Additionally, some readers may be put off by the intentional misuse of grammar and syntax, feeling that it detracts from the overall quality of the work.

Ultimately, I believe that the answer to the question of whether verb agreement inconsistency can be used as a literary device depends on the context. As with any artistic choice, it should be made with intention and skill, in service of the larger work. When used thoughtfully and judiciously, inconsistent verb agreement can be a powerful tool for conveying emotion, character, and other elements of the human experience. So while it may not be for everyone, I think it's safe to say that verb agreement inconsistency has a place in the literary canon.