Difference between Symbolism and Imagery in Literature

Symbolism and imagery both are literary devices. These are used to convey an author’s message, idea, feelings or thoughts. Symbolism is used to convey a specific meaning, which is different from the original meaning. On other hand imagery is used to create vivid pictures in the mind of the readers with the help of sensory words. These literary devices are used by most authors so as to embellish and enhance the theme of the literary works. Let us understand the symbolism and imagery in detail.

Symbolism

In the English literature, symbolism is a technique that is used when something is not to be taken literary. In simple words, symbolism is the use of a real object to stand for an idea, concept or situation. With the help of symbolism, a writer enhances the meaning of his or her literary work and captures the attention of the readers. Most writers or authors create images with the help of symbolism. A symbolism can refer to a person, word, event, action, object and situation that carry a deeper meaning in context.

For example:

•    White color is a symbol of purity and innocence.

•    Red color is symbol of anger or passion.

•    Light is a symbol of knowledge.

•    Rose is a symbol of romance.

•    Life is a roller coaster – Here roller coaster symbolizes the ups and downs of life.

Imagery

Imagery refers to any kind of description that relates to a person’s five senses. In simple words, imagery is a descriptive language, which appeals to the physical senses (sight, sound, touch, taste and smell) of the reader. With the help of imagery, the writer or author draw picture in the mind of the readers. It is a technique of creating vivid mental images for the reader by using strong sensory words. The writer uses imagery to help readers to understand the imaginary world by using their five senses.

For example:

•    The word spread like leaves in a storm.

•    He felt like the flowers were waving him a hello.

•    One bite of the sour lemon caused my lips to pucker.

•    Glittering white, the blanket of snow covered everything in sight.

•    The sweet smell of freshly baked apple filled the air.