It connects the flag as more than a flag but as a symbol of the United States. “Before the bombardment of Baltimore Harbor, the stars and stripes possessed little transcendent significance: they served primarily as banners to identify garrisons or forts (Gelb). » Key chooses to refer to the flag through imagery and alliteration, describing the flag as a "star-spangled banner" and "broad stripes and bright stars." Key also uses personification to describe the flag's movements. He describes the flag as “flying valiantly,” “blowing fitfully, half concealed, half revealed,” and “waving in triumph.” Key uses the same techniques to describe the battle and the victory of the United States over the British. He uses alliteration in “the red glow of the rockets” and “the bombs bursting in the air” to convey the impact of the bombing. He also turns to alliteration when speaking of "foetid steps" and "the darkness of the grave" when speaking of the British. Key uses personification to describe the end of the bombardment as a "fearful silence" and an "end of the battle ».