Which concept involves alteration of language conventions for artistic effect?

• A. Poetic license
• B. Parody
• C. Stream of consciousness
• D. Lend a hand

Answer: (A)

Poetic license is the freedom to bend language rules to serve artistic effect. Writers may stretch or break spelling, grammar, punctuation, or word forms on purpose to create a particular rhythm, mood, or image. This can include unusual punctuation, invented words, or unconventional syntax, all done to enhance meaning or feel rather than to follow strict standards. For instance, poets and authors often experiment with spelling or word order to produce a specific sound or lasting impression, even if it wouldn’t be considered correct in formal writing.

Parody, on the other hand, imitates another work to humorously imitate or critique it; stream of consciousness focuses on portraying a character’s unfiltered thoughts; and “lend a hand” is simply an expression meaning to help, not a technique for altering language for artistic effect.