Since Klops are known to be grammarians, I'll pose this question:
Can an inanimate object perform the work of an action verb?
This morning I read an article about a cheesemaker whose round Gouda cheeses "march across the shelves."
Or often I'll read about an object "waiting," such as "pumpkins waiting for autumn."
Can a cheese "march"? Can a pumpkin "wait"?
I know - there are more pressing questions - but will ask anyway. BTW, Happy July 4th!
p.s. I've been sorting through memorabilia - found some good stuff - will post in the weeks to come.
3 comments:
How does this differ from "imagery"?
I've been pondering this for a day now. I'd say technically the answer is no - an inanimate object cannot perform the work of an action verb. In looking up the definition of "anonymous"'s thought - that would work. Your first example would mean that the cheeses sell quickly, right? and the pumpkins are ripe and ready to be harvested, right. So we have the image of them marching and waiting.
By the way, anonymous, can people who are not identified offer legitimate posts??!?!? ;)
Waiting for those pictures Ann.
Happy July 4 to everyone.
This is not a grammar question. This is a type of figurative language called personification. It gives human characteristics to nonhuman things. It is a poetic device.
Post a Comment