Often, how we speak differs from how we write. Sometimes, we do not even realize it is happening. For instance, humans use asides and segues to shift between ideas. Anacoluthon in writing is just that. It can be an abrupt change, or a shift to a different idea. Writers use this in dialogue and argumentation to move between ideas to shift or obfuscate meaning.

Anacoluthon Defined

Whereas anaphora works through repetition, anacoluthon is defined as an inconsistency in a grammatical sentence. They are made to “shift in an unfinished sentence” unintentionally or with purpose. In other words, anacolutha is a break in sentences, or a movement from one idea to another, though they can be unrelated.

More often than not, it is used in rhetoric as a means of persuasion. Or, sometimes, it is simply a grammatical mistake. In this way, it mimics real-world speech patterns, as humans are apt to shift between ideas midsentence. Additionally, anacoluthon is used in poetry and verse to show a splintering in ideology. It shows the break in structure to steer the reader toward a significance.

Examples

A well-known example of Anacoluthon comes from King Lear by Shakespeare. The example here appears in one in this passage. He writes: “I will have such revenges on you both, / That all the world–I will do such things, / What they are, yet I know not.”

Take notice of the break in thought. First, it is about revenge. Then, the reader can sense the frustration of the speaker. Suddenly, the narrative changes. The anger and rage of the speaker comes through and not only does it shift between ideas, but it also shows us the temperament of the character.

Similarly, it is often used in stream of conscience writing to indicate the swerving of ideas. James Joyce employs this roundly in his novel Ulysses. Franz Kafke utilizes anacoluthon in his book The Trial as well.

Conclusion

Anacoluthon is used in every day speech, yet we don’t acknowledge it. If you are like me, you speak in asides. As in, I was doing this (and also this), and here is the outcome. These types of speech patterns happen often. Recognizing anacoluthon then allows you to add it to your own dialogue, enriching the reading experience. So, stop the next time you are having a conversation, and consider your asides. Maybe that is just what your next chunk of dialogue needs.