The Moon and Sixpence

by W. Somerset Maugham

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Student Question

What are two examples of vivid imagery in The Moon and Sixpence?

Quick answer:

Two examples of vivid imagery include the narrator's depiction of Strickland's Tahiti paradise in Chapter 52, which evokes a sense of Eden, and the description of Strickland's final painting in Chapter 57, given to the doctor, which transforms pure visual art into words. These passages highlight the lush, evocative language used to bring Strickland's artistic vision to life.

Expert Answers

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Oh, there are so many examples of great imagery in this book! (One of my favorites, obviously.) If I had to limit myself to two, however, I'd say chapter 52, in which the narrator describes Strickland's Tahiti paradise, and chapter 57, where he describes the final painting he sees by Strickland, the one given to the doctor. The first evokes Eden; the second pure visual art, via words.

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