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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
Key Examples in A Mother
Imagery
Explanation and Analysis—Madam Glynn’s Singing:
When describing Madam Glynn’s singing in the final of the four concerts put on by the Eire Abu Society, Joyce uses imagery and hyperbole, as seen in the following passage:
The first part of the concert was very successful except for Madam Glynn’s item. The poor lady sang Killarney in a bodiless gasping voice, with all the old-fashioned mannerisms of intonation and pronunciation which she believed lent elegance to her singing. She looked as if she had been resurrected from an old stage-wardrobe and the cheaper parts of the hall made fun of her high wailing notes.
Related Themes:
Explanation and Analysis—Mr. Fitzpatrick:
When introducing readers to the character of Mr. Fitzpatrick—the reporter for the Irish Nationalist newspaper Freeman's Journal—Joyce uses imagery, as seen in the following passage:
Unlock with LitCharts A+In the dressing-room behind the stage [Mrs. Kearney] was introduced to the secretary of the Society, Mr Fitzpatrick. She smiled and shook his hand. He was a little man with a white vacant face. She noticed that he wore his soft brown hat carelessly on the side of his head and that his accent was flat. He held a programme in his hand and, while he was talking to her, he chewed one end of it into a moist pulp. He seemed to bear disappointments lightly.
Related Themes:
