The Necklace
by Guy de Maupassant

The Necklace: Imagery 1 key example

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—Dreams and Reality:

De Maupassant evokes, in specific and highly visual language, the life that Mathilde dreams of having at the beginning of “The Necklace.” This description reveals the depth of Mathilde’s obsession with wealth: the high specificity of the fantasy speaks to the time and energy Mathilde has exerted in dreaming it up. 

She fantasized about hushed antechambers with Oriental hangings, illuminated by high bronze torchères, and with a pair of tall footmen wearing knee breeches and napping in spacious easy chairs because of the air made heavy by the heater. She fantasized about large drawing rooms lined with ancient silk, about fine furniture carrying priceless knickknacks, about small, fragrant, dainty parlors meant for five o’clock chats with the most intimate friends[.]