An anagram is a form of word play where the letters of a word or phrase are rearranged to form a new word or phrase. It involves using the same letters as the original, but in a different arrangement. In literature, anagrams are often used creatively to parody, criticize, or praise their subject.
Common Anagram Examples
- Mother-in-law: Hitler woman
- Debit card: Bad credit
- Dormitory: Dirty room
- The earthquakes: The queer shakes
- Astronomer: Moon starrer
- Punishments: Nine thumps
- School master: The classroom
Anagrams to Create Pseudonyms
In literature, anagrams are often used to create pseudonyms or pen names. Writers jumble the letters of their original names to form intriguing aliases. Some famous examples include:
- Jim Morrison: Mr. Mojo Risin
- Edward Gorey: Ogdred Weary
- Dave Barrey: Ray Adverb
- Glen Duncen: Declan Gunn
- Damon Albarn: Dan Abnormal
Anagrams in Naming Characters
Writers also use anagrams to name their characters and create a sense of wit and mystery. Some examples include:
- William Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” is an anagram of “Amleth,” a Danish prince.
- Vladimir Nabokov, in his novel Lolita, presents the character “Vivian Darkbloom,” which is an anagram of his own name.
- J.K. Rowling, in her Harry Potter series, uses an anagram “I am Lord Voldemort” for her character “Tom Marvolo Riddle,” revealing the two identities of the villain.
- In Libba Bray’s fantasy novel The Rebel Angels, characters Claire McCleethy and Hester Asa Moore use anagrams to create alternate names: “They Call Me Circe” and “Sarah Rees-Toome,” respectively.
Examples of Anagrams in Literature
Writers employ anagrams creatively in their works, adding depth and intrigue to their narratives. Let's explore some literary examples:
Example #1: Da Vinci Code (By Dan Brown)
“O, Draconian devil! Oh, lame saint! So dark the con of Man”
Jacques Saunière's cryptic message in Dan Brown's Da Vinci Code cleverly conceals references to Leonardo Da Vinci's masterpieces, showcasing the power of anagrams in deciphering clues.
Example #2: Gulliver’s Travels (By Jonathan Swift)
“Brobdingnag” (land of giants) = big, grand, noble
Jonathan Swift skillfully uses anagrams in Gulliver’s Travels to create whimsical names like “Brobdingnag” and “Tribinia” that provide insight into the characteristics of the lands Gulliver encounters during his adventures.
Function of Anagram
- Wordplay and Humor: Anagrams offer opportunities for wordplay and humor in both everyday language and literature, making language more engaging and entertaining.
- Pseudonyms and Identity: Authors use anagrams to create pseudonyms, adding an element of mystery while providing astute readers with subtle hints about their true identities.
- Character and Place Names: Anagrammatic character and place names add depth and curiosity to literary works, encouraging readers to decipher hidden meanings.
- Mystery and Clues: Anagrams play a crucial role in mystery and detective narratives, where they often serve as clues that propel the plot forward, challenging readers to solve puzzles and unravel mysteries.