How are consonance and alliteration different?

Hello, I'm an expert in the field of linguistics with a focus on poetic devices and literary techniques. Today, let's delve into the nuances between two of these techniques: consonance and alliteration. Understanding the differences between these two can greatly enhance one's appreciation for the subtleties of language and poetry.
Consonance is a poetic device that involves the repetition of consonant sounds within nearby words or phrases. This repetition can occur at any point in the word, not just at the beginning. It can create a sense of rhythm and musicality in a piece of writing, making it more memorable and engaging. Consonance can be further categorized into several types based on where the repeated sounds occur:
- Slant Consonance: This occurs when the repeated sounds are not adjacent but are found within the same line or phrase.
- Eye Consonance: This happens when the repeated consonant sounds are spelled the same but pronounced differently.
- Exact Consonance: This is when the repeated sounds are both spelled and pronounced the same.
Consonance can be found in various forms of literature, from poetry to prose, and it can be used to create a specific mood or atmosphere. For instance, it can be used to evoke a sense of gloom or to add a playful tone to a piece of writing.
On the other hand, alliteration is a specific type of consonance where the repeated consonant sounds occur at the beginning of words in close proximity. It is often used in poetry and other forms of literature to create a rhythmic pattern that can be pleasing to the ear. Alliteration can also be used to draw attention to certain words or ideas, making them more memorable for the reader. It is a powerful tool for creating a sense of unity and cohesion within a piece of writing.
Now, let's look at the example sentences provided:
- "Few flocked to the fight" - Here, the repetition of the /f/ sound at the beginning of each word is an example of alliteration.
- "Around the rugged rock the ragged rascal ran" - This sentence is a more complex example that includes both alliteration (with the /r/ sound) and consonance (with the /g/ and /d/ sounds).
The key difference between consonance and alliteration lies in the placement of the repeated sounds. In consonance, the repeated sounds can occur anywhere within the words, while in alliteration, the repeated sounds must occur at the beginning of the words. This distinction is crucial for understanding the unique effects that each technique can create in a piece of writing.
Both consonance and alliteration are valuable tools in the writer's arsenal, each with its own unique set of benefits and applications. By understanding the differences between these two techniques, writers can make more informed decisions about how to use them to enhance their work and create a more engaging and memorable reading experience for their audience.

Consonance may be regarded as the counterpart to the vowel-sound repetition known as assonance. Alliteration is a special case of consonance where the repeated consonant sound is at the stressed syllable, as in "few flocked to the fight" or "around the rugged rock the ragged rascal ran".