Metonymy

(n) Replaces the name of an object with something closely related to it. E.g.) Mozart à Mozart’s music
 * Metonymy**

SHAKESPEARE __Hamlet__ “**My crown**, my own ambition, and my queen.” - Claudius (III, iii) Effects: In this line, Claudius lists the three motives for killing his brother, the foremost reason being the crown. The crown represents the power and authority associated with kingship. As the second son in a strict feudal society, Claudius would stand to inherit nothing while Old Hamlet receives absolute control of Denmark. Referring to this power as ‘my crown’ not only keeps the listing effect intact, but also physically embodies the concept of power.

FROST __Out, Out--__ “As he swung toward them holding up the hand / Half in appeal, but half as if to keep / **The life from spilling**.” Effects: Although this poem details the violent demise of a young boy, the word ‘blood’ is never mentioned. Instead, Frost uses metonymy and replaces ‘blood’ with ‘life’, which helps create disturbing visual imagery of the young boy attempting to salvage his amputated hand. Also, the word ‘life’ also reinforces the title ‘Out, Out—‘, a reference to Macbeth’s speech on the fragility of life.