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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
Imagery
Explanation and Analysis—Nature Alive:
Throughout the novel, Lindsay pays close attention to the natural world around the characters by placing her attentive narrator both far away from and up close to the rocks, fields, lakes, animals, and plants being described. Playing with auditory imagery and personification, she often describes the natural world using verbs that are typically associated with human communication. Although the characters don't tend to notice these sounds, the narrator invites the reader to recognize the many layers of life that exist within, alongside, and beyond the human world. These minor instances of personification add to the idea that nature contains much more than meets the eye or ear.
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Imagery
Explanation and Analysis—Animal Kingdom:
Throughout the novel, Lindsay uses visual and auditory imagery to give prominence to the wildlife existing in the background of the story. Especially in scenes taking place on and around Hanging Rock, the narrator zooms in on the insects and animals that tend to go unnoticed by the characters. By giving the narrator a seemingly supernatural ability to see into the earth, trees, and bushes—and make out the sounds made by the creatures that live there—Lindsay brings the animal kingdom to the forefront of her narrative.
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Chapter 1
Explanation and Analysis—Hanging Rock:
In her descriptions of Hanging Rock, Lindsay tends to combine concrete details with a more abstract atmosphere of mystery and danger. Through the imagery and similes in these descriptions, the "geological marvel" acquires both a tangible presence and a sense of eerie, supernatural inscrutability.
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Chapter 3
Explanation and Analysis—Hanging Rock:
In her descriptions of Hanging Rock, Lindsay tends to combine concrete details with a more abstract atmosphere of mystery and danger. Through the imagery and similes in these descriptions, the "geological marvel" acquires both a tangible presence and a sense of eerie, supernatural inscrutability.
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Chapter 10
Explanation and Analysis—Afloat in a Sea Cave:
While much of Picnic at Hanging Rock feels either sinister or playful, the novel nevertheless contains a number of descriptions that feel tender and touching. One such description can be found in Chapter 10, when Irma and Mademoiselle are reunited for the first time since the day of the picnic. Using alliteration, imagery, personification, and simile, Lindsay evokes the heartwarming moment—and temporarily replaces the grim mood and playful tone with stirring sincerity:
Unlock with LitCharts A+The venetian blinds were drawn against the green garden light that rippled on the whitewashed walls of the bare little room and on the immense double bed with its patchwork quilt, seemingly afloat in a sea cave. The soft summer air caressed and healed like water.
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Chapter 12
Explanation and Analysis—Chamber of Horrors:
Irma's return to Appleyard College in Chapter 12 causes one of the novel's most disturbing scenes. A sort of nightmarish panic is triggered when Irma stops by the gymnasium, "commonly known to the boarders as the Chamber of Horrors." To evoke and draw out this panic, Lindsay uses imagery, metaphor, and simile.
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