In this sentence, what figurative device does thoreau use to establish the tone of this passage more strongly?

In the play jack and algernon tell lies so that they may further pursue pleasure and avoid obligations. have you ever lied for such a purpose? do you think it is always wrong to lie, or are there circumstances when lying might be okay. what consequences can arise from lying? if you want share an experience where you either told a lie or were lied to and the consequences that happened because of the dishonesty