Question

Which literary device is used in this poem?

For a Lady I Know
by Countee Cullen

She even thinks that up in heaven
Her class lies late and snores

While poor black cherubs rise at seven
To do celestial chores.

Answer 1

The literary device used in this poem is HYPERBOLE. Hyperbole is defined as exaggerated claims that are not meant to be taken literally. In this poem, the author exaggerated that the lady thinks that social segregation exist in heaven. This is an exaggerated statement used by the author in order to emphasize his points.

Answer 2

"For a Lady, I Know" by Countee Cullen uses irony and allusion.

"She even thinks that up in heaven her class lies late and snores, while poor black cherubs rise at seven to do celestial chores."

The allusion is represented by the words Heaven and Cherubs which represent well-known words in the bible and in most religions. These words are emblems of holy and sacred things.

The irony is presented by her position as a high society woman who has black servants and believes that because of her social and economic position she will go to heaven despite de mistreat she has with her employess.