This question is based on Literary Principles.
'Still stand stubborn
To stones that strangle the dawn,
Still stand stubborn
To stones that maim the morn,
still stand stubborn
To stones that assail the sun'
Atukwei Okai, 'Sunset Sonata'
The dominant literary device employed in the above passage is
Alliteration is a literary device where a series of words in a sentence or phrase share the same initial consonant sound. In the provided passage, the repetition of the initial "s" sound in the phrase "Still stand stubborn" and throughout the lines is an example of alliteration. This repetitive use of the same consonant sound creates a musical and rhythmic quality. It draws attention to the words and emphasises the defiance and resilience expressed in the poem.
While repetition is present in the passage, the more prominent and distinctive feature is the alliteration. The title of the poem, "Sunset Sonata," also exhibits alliteration with the repeated "s" sound and this reinforces the stylistic choice of the poet.
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