What Is Allusion in Writing Learn About the 6 Different Types of Literary Allusions and Neil Gaiman’s Tips for Using Allusion in Writing

An allusion is a popular literary device. Allusions are used to develop characters, frame storylines, and help create associations to well-known works. Allusions can reference anything from Victorian fairy tales to popular culture, and from the Bible to the Bard. Take the popular expression â€Å"Bah humbug†Ã¢â‚¬â€an allusion referencing Charles Dickens’ novella A Christmas Carol. The phrase, which is often used to express curmudgeonly dissatisfaction, is associated with the tale’s egregious character, Ebenezer Scrooge.