Study Notes
Imagery is a literary device that uses figurative language to create vivid pictures in the reader's mind, appealing to the five senses.
- Visual Imagery — describes how something looks. Example: The bouquet was filled with red roses, blue irises, and soft sprays of baby's breath.
- Auditory Imagery — describes sound. Example: The sound of music played through the radio as the girl swayed to the music.
- Gustatory Imagery — describes taste. Example: The salty-sweet caramel melted in her mouth.
- Olfactory Imagery — describes smell. Example: As I walked in, I was met with a delicious scent of freshly baked cookies.
- Tactile Imagery — describes touch. Example: She wore a soft furry coat.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Imagery: A literary device that creates vivid pictures in the reader's mind using the five senses.
- Visual Imagery: Describes how something looks.
- Auditory Imagery: Describes sound.
- Gustatory Imagery: Describes taste.
- Olfactory Imagery: Describes smell.
- Tactile Imagery: Describes touch.
Common Confusions
- Confusing imagery with literal descriptions.
- Mixing up the types of imagery.
Typical Exam Questions
- Describe this picture using figures of speech and imagery? Use similes, metaphors, and sensory details to describe the image.
- Write a three-stanza poem using figures of speech and all five types of imagery? Include similes, metaphors, and sensory details in each stanza.
- Write a poem on Summer. Include figures of speech and imagery? Use vivid descriptions and sensory details to evoke the feeling of summer.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Ability to identify and use different types of imagery.
- Understanding of how imagery enhances writing.
- Use of figures of speech to create imagery.