Prosiopesis is a rhetorical device in which a speaker or writer suddenly addresses an absent person, a thing or an abstract idea. There are several synonyms for prosiopesis, including apostrophe, address, direct address, invocation, and digression. These terms are used to describe the same communication technique where the speaker or writer temporarily diverts from the main topic and begins speaking to someone or something else. Whether it is a fictional character, a deity, or an inanimate object, prosiopesis can add depth and emotion to a message. It can also be used to bring attention to a certain issue or to make a statement about the state of affairs.