Essay Sample on Riddle

Introduction

Riddles are questions that trigger the mind to solve a puzzle. They mainly use metaphors, as well as, an allegory to describe events, people, objects and animals. They are expressed in the form of statements or phrases. They are played as games, to pass the time and are used to trigger the mind.

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Riddle

I crack when dropped; I always turn things without moving,

I woe many women, I tell them exactly who they are,

When people laugh at me, I giggle back; I am only an expression of who they are,

I have seen thousands of things and faces, so what you see is the truth: the devil is behind the glass.

What am I?

Commentary

The riddle above uses different stylistic elements to describe a mirror. It comprises of metaphors, syntax, alliteration and a proverb. The use of alliteration creates rhyme to the riddle.

The answer to the riddle is a mirror. Mirrors show the reflection of everything. Generally, they are formed by surfaces that reflect light to show an image. They are to be made of shiny and silvery tops. In most cases, they tell the truth, that is; a sad person will also look unhappy in the mirror. They have seen many things including human beings and objects.

Mirrors are used by women. They carry them in bags and are framed in their houses. They use them; to look at their outfits and to change make-up. It is, moreover, an honest partner to them since it shows them exactly how they look. Ordinarily, a woman will tend to believe what they see in the mirror rather than what someone else may tell them.

A mirror displays the expressions of a person. Generally, they reflect a person's appearance. It only shows the outer beauty of an individual rather than their inner beauty. Mirrors turn things without moving. Words, for example, are reversed and virtual. The type of a mirror determines how the image appear. Glass mirrors, additionally, break when dropped. It is, therefore, paramount to handle them with care.

The above riddle relates to the Exeter Book riddle 69, which refers to ice. They both use stylistic elements to make them more appealing. The usage of metaphors enhances the complexity of the puzzle, but also provides clues to the answer. One similarity between a mirror and ice is; they both produce images. In some instances, ice is to be used as a mirror. The surface of the sea also produces reflections. In the contemporary world, ice is used to make mirrors in hotels located in snowy areas.

The Exeter Book riddle 74 relates to the above puzzle. They have personified their answers. Humanizing the solution makes the puzzle catchy. The solution, moreover, is written as though it is speaking about itself. Listeners can, therefore, connect with the question. The riddle 51, on the other hand, relates to the above question in that: they both use alliteration. This stylistic element is, therefore, important in creating rhyme hence, making it easier to tell and listen to the puzzlement. Both riddles are not too long since, it is easier for audiences to comprehend them; they are easy to follow. They are presented orally.

Conclusion

In conclusion, riddles are generally presented orally to an audience. The use of stylistic elements makes them appealing. They are to be played as mind games, and they differ depending on the culture and the intended spectators. Mirrors can become represented in numerous puzzles. Finally, the above riddle relates differently to various puzzles from the Exeter Book.