Juxtaposition

Ever wonder how writers come up with saying such as, “It’s better late than never”? Well, let’s consider juxtaposition. At some point in time, someone was probably running late and either could not contact the person waiting for them or was not able to do so. As a result, they arrived very late to meet a presumably very angry person. The culprit probably thought, “Well, what can I say to that” and out came, “better late, than never” to neutralize the situation.

While that’s a very plausible explanation (and rather witty for being put on the spot), in writing, a bit more thought goes into such sayings. Writers often come up with such phrases through careful consideration of what and how they wish to convey something through the combination of words and phrases seemingly unrelated. Enter juxtaposition.

What is Juxtaposition?

Juxtaposition is a literary device that involves placing two contrasting words, objects, or elements side-by-side or close to in order to emphasize their differences. One of the most cited examples of juxtaposition is the famous Dickens quote, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.”  Juxtaposition contrasts and highlights the differences between the two things being contrasted. Juxtaposition can create dramatic effect, draw attention to a particular point, or create a sense of irony among other things. Examples of juxtaposition include night and day; vice and virtue; family vs. outsiders, good and evil

Why do writers use Juxtaposition?

Writers use juxtaposition for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, they use it for rhetorical effect. By placing the two contrasting words, objects, ideas, etc. next to each other, the writer may:

• Create an element of absurdity
• Strengthen an argument
• Flesh out a character
• Explore nuances
• Draw a link between seemingly unrelated things
• Add meaning

 
Often, the contrast created by juxtaposition creates a vivid contrast between two ideas, characters, settings, or objects juxtaposed together in order to draw attention to their elements and force the reader to pause and consider what is being said.

How do writers use Juxtaposition?

Juxtaposition is used by writers for various reasons, but its impact can be equally inspired. Some of the most effective examples of juxtaposition can be found in expository and argumentative writing. It may also be used in professional writing. Regardless of how you choose to use juxtaposition in your writing, useful tips to follow include:

Carefully choose the two contrasting elements to place side by side.
Use the juxtaposition to emphasize the differences between the two elements.
Use the juxtaposition to create contrast and comparison.

Then, once you’ve identified these elements, carefully consider:

Your thesis and reason for using juxtaposition in the desired situation.
Ask yourself, “Is this the best contrast I can use to support my point?”
Think about alternatives. Ask yourself, “Is there a better alternative in this situation?”
Consider the implications of your initial comparison and each alternative.

Remember: The single most important thing to remember when using juxtaposition in your writing is that the implications of the contrast created are not always intentional.

Juxtaposition in Literature 📚

In most things literary, Shakespeare remains the reigning king, However, as pertains to the art of juxtaposition, an argument can be made in favor of Charles Dickens and this example form his book, The Tale of Two Cities:

received, for good or for evil, in the superlative degree of comparison only.”
In this one example, Dickens presents 7 examples of juxtaposition in the 5 five lines. In fact, nothing in the first five lines of this passage is not a juxtaposition.

Then we have the equally famous passage from John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men. In the following passage, the narrator is describing the stark contrast in appearance of George and Lenny. Of note are the descriptive words working to create a vivid image and allude to the darkness inside George.

This passage is a great example of juxtaposition not because it bluntly tells you the two men are opposites but because if the identifying phrase were not present, the reader might miss the juxtaposition of the two descriptions as a result of everything in between.

Juxtaposition in Children’s Literature 🧸

When considering how juxtaposition functions in children’s literature, it becomes more conceptional and not always something that a child or young adult might pick up on. Here, two of the greatest examples of juxtaposition in children’s literature are briefly explained.

Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White – In this classic story, White contrasts Wilbur’s innocence and naivete with the wisdom and intelligence of Charlotte. The result is a powerful contrast which feeds the story.
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein – This one always seems to arouse strong emotions in readers. They either love it or hate it with no in-between for the very reason the story is included here. Silverstein pits the tree’s unconditional love and selflessness against the boy’s selfishness and greed. As a result, a powerful contrast is created that contributes to the overall message of the story.

Juxtaposition in Song 🎧

For this section, we’re gonna mix things up a bit. Normally, we like to discuss a few songs, point out key details, and explain why they’re good examples of the literary device being discussed.

But for juxtaposition, we felt it might be more useful to understand the process and how juxtaposition finds its way into song lyrics, so check out this useful video.

And in Poetry … ✍🏽

In poetry, juxtaposition is much more fun. The texts tend to be shorter, the meaning often vague, and the contrast more subtle, more abstract.

Dylan Thomas illustrates this fact in his poem, “Do not Go Gentle into that Good Night,” with the line:

“Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight”

At first glance, the two phrases in this line seem completely unrelated. However, what Dylan is contrasting is the darkness of death and the light of Heaven.

Another great example is “Joining the Colors” by Kathryn Tynan.

Like Dylan, Tynan’s contrast is stark but seemingly out of place. However, the speaker is trying to communicate that the boys’ youthful outlook cannot neither save nor prepare them for the dark fate awaiting them that they are so underprepared for.

Juxtaposition in Movies 🎥

Oh! There are so many great examples to choose from. Good vs. evil, light vs. dark, life vs. death, it can go on-and-on. Instead, a few choice selections have been chosen for closer review.

The Dark Knight (2008): The juxtaposition of Batman’s heroic mission with the Joker’s chaotic and destructive mission both builds character and sets the tone for the movie.

Another great example, although you don’t always see it, is the juxtaposition of the real world vs. that of the matrix in The Matrix trilogy (Note: The fourth film was purposely omitted because it was so bad and for the most part, unrelated).

And more food for thought:

Juxtaposition in Advertising 📺

Despite being hugely popular in the world of advertising, it is surprisingly difficult to find usable visual examples without crossing over into the land of copyright infringement.

With that having been said, let it be noted that Nike is somewhat of an advertising phenomenon in this category. So, check out this clip on how Nike uses juxtaposition in its ads.

Similar and Related Terms Not to be Confused with Juxtaposition 👥

Antithesis – Antithesis is a figure of speech that pits opposing (opposites, if you will) thoughts, ideas, or characters against each other through parallelism. Example: “Hatred stirs up strife, but lover covers all sins,” (American rapper NAS).
Oxymoron – An oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines words with opposing meaning, oftentimes giving new meaning to the word or phrase created. Example:  virtual + reality = “virtual reality”
Portmanteau – Loosely defined as a literary device that encourages linguistic creativity, or blending, of words. Well-known examples include interconnectivity + network + “internet,” labrador + poodle = “labradoodle,” or everyone’s favorite, fork + spoon = “spork”

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