“The Grackle” by Ogden Nash is a humorous poem that uses various poetic devices to enhance its comedic effect. Some of the poetic devices used in the poem include:

1. Rhyme: The poem follows a consistent rhyme scheme of AABBCCDD, with each stanza consisting of two rhyming couplets. For example, in the first stanza, the words “grackle” and “tackle” rhyme, as do “swoop” and “soup.”

2. Alliteration: Alliteration is the repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words. Nash uses alliteration to create a playful and musical effect. For example, in the line “The grackle’s voice is less than mellow,” the repetition of the “l” sound in “less,” “grackle’s,” and “mellow” creates a pleasing sound.

3. Metaphor: A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two unrelated things. In the poem, Nash uses metaphors to describe the grackle’s voice. For example, he compares the grackle’s voice to “a rusty pump” and “a saw in a throat.” These metaphors help to create vivid and humorous images in the reader’s mind.

4. Hyperbole: Hyperbole is an exaggeration used for emphasis or comedic effect. Nash employs hyperbole throughout the poem to describe the grackle’s voice in an exaggerated and humorous way. For example, he states that the grackle’s voice can “shatter eardrums half a block away” and that it is “a noise to make you wince.”

5. Onomatopoeia: Onomatopoeia is the use of words that imitate the sounds they describe. Nash uses onomatopoeia to mimic the sound of the grackle’s voice. For example, he describes the grackle’s voice as “a creaking door” and “a rusty pump,” which imitate the sounds associated with those objects.

6. Repetition: Nash uses repetition to emphasize certain phrases and create a rhythmic effect. For example, the phrase “The grackle’s voice is less than mellow” is repeated at the beginning of each stanza, reinforcing the idea of the grackle’s unpleasant voice.

Overall, these poetic devices contribute to the humorous and playful tone of the poem, making it an enjoyable and entertaining read.