Attitude

Introduction

Attitude in literature refers to the tone a writer adopts toward their subject, characters, or audience. This literary device encompasses the emotional meaning behind the words chosen by the author and is often revealed through the narrator’s viewpoint or the tone of the piece. Attitude is not just what is said but how it is said, and it can dramatically affect the reader’s perception and emotional response. For example, a sarcastic attitude can add a layer of irony and humor, while a solemn tone might deepen a reader’s empathy for the characters.

Pronunciation: /ˈæt.ɪ.tjuːd/

When do writers use Attitude literary device?

Writers use the attitude literary device to guide the reader’s emotions and provide insight into the characters’ inner worlds. It helps in building a connection with the audience by aligning them emotionally with the narrative’s mood. Writers often employ attitude to set the overall tone of the story, subtly influencing how the audience should feel about the plot developments or characters. For instance, an author’s positive attitude towards a character’s actions can make the audience more likely to sympathize with that character, regardless of the morality of their actions.

Rules for using Attitude literary device

To effectively use the attitude literary device in writing, consider the following rules:

1. Consistency is key: Maintain a consistent attitude throughout your piece to avoid confusing your audience. Changing attitudes can be effective if done deliberately and with clear intent.
2. Match tone to content: Ensure that the attitude matches the theme and content of your writing. An inappropriate tone can disengage readers and muddle your message.
3. Use language to convey attitude: Choose words and phrases that reflect the desired attitude. The vocabulary should align with the emotions you aim to evoke.
4. Consider your audience: Tailor the attitude to your intended audience’s preferences and expectations to maximize engagement and impact.
5. Reflect character development: Let the attitudes in dialogue and narrative reflect character growth or thematic shifts in your story.

Employing these rules can help you craft a compelling and emotionally resonant narrative.

Types of Attitude

Attitude in literature can be broadly categorized into three types: positive, negative, and neutral. Each type serves to shape the reader’s emotional response and can be utilized to different effects:

1. Positive Attitude: This includes attitudes that are optimistic, affectionate, cheerful, or enthusiastic. Writers use positive attitudes to create a likable, encouraging, or hopeful tone.
2. Negative Attitude: These are pessimistic, cynical, or critical tones. Negative attitudes can be used to critique social norms, highlight flaws in characters, or create tension and conflict within the narrative.
3. Neutral Attitude: An impartial or indifferent tone. Neutral attitudes can help to present facts more objectively or to portray detachment or disconnection in characters or narrators.

Each of these types can be expressed through various stylistic choices including diction, syntax, and rhetorical devices, influencing the reader’s perception and the thematic depth of the text.

Attitude in Literature

Several classic works of literature are renowned for their distinctive use of attitude:

1. “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen: Austen’s attitude towards the societal norms of her time is both critical and satirical, which provides a humorous yet incisive critique of the marriage market of the 19th century.
2. “Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger: The protagonist, Holden Caulfield, exhibits a deeply pessimistic and cynical attitude towards society, which reflects his struggle with adolescence and identity.
3. “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee: The narrative carries a moral and reflective attitude, seen through the eyes of Scout, towards issues of racial injustice and moral growth.

Attitude in Children’s Books

In children’s literature, attitude is used to teach, entertain, and convey morals. Some famous examples include:

1. “Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White: The attitude is gentle and caring, highlighting themes of friendship, loyalty, and the cycle of life.
2. “The Gruffalo” by Julia Donaldson: This book features a playful and clever attitude, using rhymes and a smart narrative twist that captivates and amuses young readers.
3. “Matilda” by Roald Dahl: Dahl’s attitude here is both critical of authority and empowering, as Matilda, a young girl, overcomes abusive adults using her wit and intelligence.

Attitude in Poetry

Poetry often relies heavily on the poet’s attitude to convey deeper meanings and evoke emotions. Here are a few famous examples:

1. “Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night” by Dylan Thomas: This poem exhibits a defiant and urgent attitude towards death and dying.
2. “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost: Reflective and contemplative, the poem’s attitude explores the significance of choices and their impact on life.
3. “Still I Rise” by Maya Angelou: Angelou’s poem is powerful and assertive, promoting strength and resilience in the face of oppression and discrimination.

These examples showcase how attitude can dramatically affect the tone, meaning, and reader’s emotional response in various forms of literature.

Attitude in Songs

Songs often convey a strong attitude through lyrics and musical style. Here are ten famous examples where attitude is a key element:

1. “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor: This song exudes an attitude of determination and resilience.
2. “Respect” by Aretha Franklin: Franklin demands respect and empowerment, showcasing a defiant and confident attitude.
3. “Born This Way” by Lady Gaga: An anthem for self-acceptance and confidence, the song promotes a positive and affirming attitude.
4. “Fight the Power” by Public Enemy: With a confrontational and provocative attitude, this song challenges social injustices and demands change.
5. “We Will Rock You” by Queen: An assertive and bold attitude fills this song, intended to energize and empower listeners.
6. “Bad Reputation” by Joan Jett: The song reflects a rebellious and nonconformist attitude towards societal expectations.
7. “Lose Yourself” by Eminem: This track captures an intense and motivational attitude, focusing on seizing the moment despite the odds.
8. “Firework” by Katy Perry: Encourages a joyful and inspirational attitude, empowering listeners to realize their full potential.
9. “Can’t Hold Us” by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis: Features an uplifting and triumphant attitude about overcoming obstacles.
10. “Roar” by Katy Perry: Exhibits a strong and defiant attitude, celebrating self-empowerment and courage.

Attitude in Movies

Movies often convey attitude through their characters, dialogues, and overall tone. Here are some famous examples:

1. “The Godfather” (1972): The film exhibits a solemn and commanding attitude towards family and power.
2. “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” (1986): Ferris’s carefree and rebellious attitude towards life and rules is central to the film’s appeal.
3. “Rocky” (1976): Exemplifies an underdog attitude of determination and perseverance.
4. “The Devil Wears Prada” (2006): Miranda Priestly’s attitude in the film is haughty and demanding, setting the tone for the high-pressure fashion industry.
5. “Dead Poets Society” (1989): The film promotes an inspiring and revolutionary attitude towards education and individuality.

Famous movie line highlighting Attitude

“Frankly, my dear, I don’t give a damn.” – “Gone with the Wind” (1939)

This line by Rhett Butler perfectly encapsulates his dismissive and decisive attitude at the climax of the film.

Youtube link of relevant movie clip demonstrating Attitude

Search for the clip of “I’m walking here!” from the movie “Midnight Cowboy” (1969), which is a great example of defiant attitude in film.

Attitude in Advertising

Attitude in advertising is used to persuade, engage, and influence consumers. Some famous examples include:

1. Nike’s “Just Do It”: Encourages an attitude of determination and action.
2. Apple’s “Think Different”: Promotes an innovative and creative attitude.
3. Dove’s “Real Beauty” campaign: Advocates for a positive self-image and realistic beauty standards.
4. Old Spice’s humorous and over-the-top ads: Utilize a playful and confident attitude to captivate viewers.
5. Coca-Cola’s “Open Happiness”: Suggests a joyful and positive attitude towards life.

Attitude related literary devices

Several literary devices relate to or convey attitude, including:

1. Tone: The general character or attitude of a place, piece of writing, situation, etc.
2. Diction: The choice of words and style of expression that an author uses.
3. Irony: Often used to convey a complex or critical attitude towards the subject matter.
4. Satire: Utilizes humor, irony, and exaggeration to criticize or poke fun at something, often reflecting a cynical attitude.
5. Hyperbole: Exaggeration can be used to convey strong emotions and an intense attitude.