Final answer:
Sensory language involves imagery that appeals to one or more of the five senses, helping readers to experience a text as if they were present in the scene.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sensory language is a type of imagery that is used to appeal to the senses of the reader. It includes details that can relate to any of the five senses: sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste. Through sensory language, a reader can experience a scene as if they were actually present in it.
For example, the phrase “steaming air and crackle of waterdrops” from Gary Snyder's poem “The Bath” evokes visual, auditory, and tactile images for the reader.
Here are some more examples that illustrate different types of sensory images:
Visual imagery: “Aqua, teal, or navy” - These precise color names allow a reader to envision varied shades of blue vividly.
Auditory imagery: “The sound that the train makes” from “Hat Angel” by Michael Burkard - This description recreates the train's noise through word choice.
Gustatory imagery: “Osso Bucco” by Billy Collins - This poem uses sensory details to make readers feel as if they are tasting the meat on their plate.
Olfactory and tactile imagery: “Garlic” by Robert Evory - Focuses on the scent of garlic and the feeling of the paper-like skin against a fingernail.
These examples not only provide a vivid description but also engage the readers' senses and help them gain a deeper understanding of the text.