Assess the quality of your imagery with practical poetry from Doris Corti
When using imagery a poet is persuading a reader to view familiar objects in a different way. It helps to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. For example, if rain is merely described as ‘falling’ and even if this description is broadened a little into ‘delicately falling’, an image is not created. However, if the rain is described as ‘falling needle-like’, the description moves closer to imagery.
By using this technique a poet endeavours to draw readers directly into the poem as an image creates a mental picture. It clarifies and intensifies the depth of emotion within a poem. By using metaphor and simile a poet can achieve imagery within lines.