Previous
Hyperbole
Definition of Imagery
Imagery, in any sort of writing, refers to descriptive language that engages the human senses. For instance, the following lines from Robert Frost's poem "After Apple-Picking" contain imagery that engages... read full definition
Imagery, in any sort of writing, refers to descriptive language that engages the human senses. For instance, the following lines from Robert Frost's poem "After... read full definition
Imagery, in any sort of writing, refers to descriptive language that engages the human senses. For instance, the following lines... read full definition
Chapter 3
Explanation and Analysis—The Slave Pen:
Solomon takes the time to describe the inside of the slave pen where he is confined, an example of the use of imagery:
The yard extended rearward from the house about thirty feet. In one part of the wall there was a strongly ironed door, opening into a narrow, covered passage, leading along one side of the house into the street. The doom of the colored man, upon whom the door leading out of that narrow passage closed, was sealed […] Underneath the roof there was a crazy loft all round, where slaves, if so disposed, might sleep at night, or in inclement weather seek shelter from the storm. It was like a farmer’s barnyard in most respects, save it was so constructed that the outside world could never see the human cattle that were herded there.
Related Themes:
Chapter 10
Explanation and Analysis—Running Away:
When Solomon describes his attempt at running away from the cruel enslaver Tibeats, he uses imagery to communicate the terror of his experience:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Every few moments I could hear the yelpings of the dogs. They were gaining upon me. Every howl was nearer and nearer. Each moment I expected they would spring upon my back—expected to feel their long teeth sinking into my flesh. There were so many of them, I knew they would tear me to pieces, that they would worry me, at once, to death. I gasped for breath.
Related Themes:
Chapter 14
Explanation and Analysis—Light and Dark:
Several times throughout his memoir, Solomon uses imagery of light and dark to communicate feelings of hope and despair, forming a motif. For example, after a white steamboat captain refuses to help Solomon find freedom in Chapter 14, Solomon expresses his hopelessness as so:
Unlock with LitCharts A+I was compelled to smother the sudden flame that lighted up my bosom with sweet hopes of liberation, and turn my steps once more towards the increasing darkness of despair.
Related Themes:
Chapter 16
Explanation and Analysis—Light and Dark:
Several times throughout his memoir, Solomon uses imagery of light and dark to communicate feelings of hope and despair, forming a motif. For example, after a white steamboat captain refuses to help Solomon find freedom in Chapter 14, Solomon expresses his hopelessness as so:
Unlock with LitCharts A+I was compelled to smother the sudden flame that lighted up my bosom with sweet hopes of liberation, and turn my steps once more towards the increasing darkness of despair.
Related Themes:
