Using the words in unusual combinations makes what the writer wants to say more meaningful. The use of words provides the reader with an idea or mood by creating images in your mind.

"The moon was a ghostly galleon, tossed upon stormy seas."
AND
"The moon's a balloon."

Both of these statements about the moon use figures of speech.

We know that the moon is neither a ghostly ship or a balloon, but by using these figures of speech the poets are able to instantly create different moods and could provide insight to the setting.

What is the effect of the use of these devices on the reader?
By using the word balloon, the reader knows that what follows will probably be light hearted and playful. With the words, "ghostly galleon, tossed upon stormy seas," the reader instantly knows that something tragic or serious will happen, and it creates a eerie, tense mood. It also allows the reader to better understand the setting as we know that is it probably a windy night when dark clouds are crossing the moon.

Figurative language

What Lit. Devices are used?