Hyperbole

An example of hyperbole is when Philip Larkin writes about "The endless altered people" in "An Arundel Tomb." Although it is highly unlikely that the flow of people coming to see the tomb is "endless," Larkin's use of the hyperbole emphasizes the passing of time as well as the changes that people go through as a result of time. 
 * Hyperbole**
 * A figure of speech in which exaggeration is used for emphasis or effect
 * An extravagant statement or figure of speech not intended to be taken literally
 * Obvious and intentional exaggeration that may be used to evoke strong feelings of to create a strong impression, but is not mean to be taken literally