When writing a poem, an author often uses allusion to enrich the text - calling on noteworthy figures, ideas, or events that emphasize the poem's deeper meaning. This use of allusion is often double-sided, with allusion being used positively as a more direct comparison, as well as in the form of irony, helping the reader draw out the meaning of the text through understated contrasts. Both "A Study of Reading Habits," by Philip Larkin and "Constantly Risking Absurdity," by Lawrence Ferlinghetti, employ allusion, however in "A Study of Reading Habits" Larkin al...

• Word Count: 794
• Approx Pages: 3
• Grade Level: Graduate