Read the given extract.

Comment on the poet’s use of imagery in these lines.

Answer as written by the student:

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The poet’s use of imagery in these lines is very effective and vivid. He creates a contrast between the artificial and unnatural environment of the house and the natural and harmonious environment of the forest. He uses sensory images that appeal to our sight, hearing, and touch to make us feel the difference between the two settings. He also uses imagery to convey the emotions and feelings of the trees and the forest.

Step-by-step explanation of the answer:

• First, let’s see what is imagery . Imagery is the use of language that creates pictures or sensations in the reader’s mind. Imagery can be based on any of the five senses: sight, sound, smell, taste, or touch.
• For example, in this sentence: “She smelled the roses and felt their soft petals on her fingers”, there is imagery based on smell and touch that creates a pleasant sensation in the reader’s mind.
• The poet uses imagery in these lines to create a contrast between the house and the forest. He wants us to see, hear, and feel how different they are, and how the trees belong to the forest rather than the house.
• Some examples of imagery that the poet uses are:
• The image of “the trees inside” suggests that the trees are trapped or caged in an unnatural place that does not suit them. It creates a sense of discomfort and claustrophobia in the reader’s mind.
• The image of “moving out” suggests that the trees are escaping or liberating themselves from their confinement. It creates a sense of movement and action in the reader’s mind.
• The image of “the forest that was empty” suggests that the forest is lonely and desolate without the trees. It creates a sense of sadness and emptiness in the reader’s mind.
• The image of “no bird could sit no insect hide no sun bury its feet in shadow” creates a sense of gloom and silence in the forest. It appeals to our sight and hearing and makes us feel that the forest is lifeless and dark.
• The image of “full of trees by morning” suggests that the forest will be transformed and rejuvenated by the arrival of the trees. It appeals to our sight and makes us feel that the forest will be lively and bright.
• By using imagery, the poet wants to show us how the trees feel about their situation. He wants us to sympathize with their desire to return to their natural habitat, where they can be happy and peaceful. He also wants us to appreciate the beauty and harmony of nature, and how it depends on the presence of trees.

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