Introduction to Figurative Language in Music

Figurative language is a potent tool in songwriting, enriching the emotional and imaginative power of lyrics. This article explores common examples of figurative language found in songs and delves into the works of artists like Bo Burnham and Bob Dylan, who masterfully employ these techniques to convey deeper meanings and emotions in their music.

Types of Figurative Language in Songs

1. Metaphor

A metaphor is a direct comparison between two unrelated things, suggesting they are alike in some way. For example, in Bob Dylan's 'Lay Down Your Weary Tune,' the line 'The last of leaves fell from the trees/And clung to a new love’s breast' uses a metaphor to compare the falling leaves to the new love, evoking a sense of time passing and the beginning of a new chapter.

2. Simile

A simile compares two different things using the words 'like' or 'as.' In lyrics, similes illuminate the relationship between objects, enhancing the imagery. An example is the lyric from the show 'Portlandia,' 'The morning breeze like a bugle blew' in which the wind compares to a bugle sounding, suggesting a forceful and decisive beginning.

3. Personification

The attribution of human traits to non-human things is known as personification. For example, a line like 'The wind mourns low' gives human feelings to the wind, adding emotional depth to the lyrics. Bo Burnham often uses personification in his works, mirroring the human experience of emotions in non-human elements.

4. Hyperbole

Hyperbole is an exaggeration for emphasis or effect. In Bo Burnham’s songs, one might find lines exaggerating to express strong feelings, such as 'I cry buckets of tears.' This hyperbole emphasizes the intensity of emotions felt.

5. Imagery

Imagery refers to descriptive language that appeals to the senses, painting a vivid picture for the listener. For example, the line 'The darkness of her hair, the light of her smile' uses imagery to create a visual comparison, enhancing the emotional impact of the lyrics.

6. Alliteration

Alliteration involves the repetition of initial consonant sounds in nearby words, creating a rhythmic and powerful effect. For instance, 'Silent night, calm and still' in lullabies uses alliteration to evoke a peaceful atmosphere.

7. Symbolism

Symbolism involves using symbols to represent ideas or concepts. In Bob Dylan’s 'Lay Down Your Weary Tune,' leaves falling from trees symbolize the passage of time, underscoring change and new beginnings.

8. Oxymoron

An oxymoron combines contradictory terms for emphasis or effect. A line like 'jumbo shrimp' turns words that typically do not align into a surprising and impactful statement, enhancing the lyrics’ meaning.

9. Assonance

Assonance is the repetition of vowel sounds within nearby words, adding musical quality to the lyrics. For example, the line 'heart in pain' repeats the 'a' sound, creating a pleasing auditory effect.

Bo Burnham and Figurative Language in Modern Music

Bo Burnham is a notable figure in contemporary music, frequently employing wordplay and irony in his compositions. His comedy specials like 'Make Happy' and 'What' are filled with songs that showcase his mastery of figurative language. Elements of humor and literary devices are seamlessly integrated into his performances, making them a unique blend of comedy and music. A worthwhile watch for fans of both comedy and songwriting is his late-night special 'Words Words Words,' featuring a song called 'Ironic,' which is available on Comedy Central.

Bob Dylan's Innovative Use of Figurative Language

Bob Dylan, a legendary figure in music, also excels in the use of figurative language. His 1972 song 'Lay Down Your Weary Tune' exemplifies the extensive use of simile and metaphor. The song’s lyrics, which can be found on The Official Bob Dylan Site, are rich with vivid imagery and comparisons. Additionally, Dylan incorporates synesthesia, a technique where senses are confused for artistic effect, as seen in his intensive study of French Symbolist poets Charles Baudelaire and Arthur Rimbaud, who introduced him to this poetic device.

Conclusion

The application of figurative language in song lyrics enhances the emotional and imaginative power of music, making it more impactful and memorable. Artists like Bo Burnham and Bob Dylan demonstrate the versatility and depth of these literary techniques, setting new standards for songwriting and performance. Whether through sophisticated metaphors, vivid imagery, or musical alliteration, the use of figurative language transforms simple words into powerful musical expressions.