In Most Texts
The central idea of a work
Theme
A comparison of why something happens and its outcome
Cause/Effect
The primary position taken by a writer or speaker.
Thesis
A comparison of two things using like, as, or other specific comparison words.
Simile
This device describes the implied attitude toward a subject or audience.
Tone
A direct comparison of two different things
Metaphor
The emotional atmosphere of a work
Mood
A comparison of two different things that are similar in some way
Analogy
The manner in which words are arranged into sentences.
Syntax
Placing two elements side by side to present a comparison or contrast.
Juxtaposition