Charles Yale Harrison is one of the most devoted writers who tells their life experiences through writing. “In the Trenches” is a real-life story of Charles Yale Harrison during the First World War. The author employs various rhetorical techniques to create vivid images and sensations of his tribulations and desperation during the war.
Two forms of imagery that stood out for me are auditory and visual images. The use of these two techniques is astonishing and effective in evoking an emotional response to his story. Therefore, it feels like watching a live movie while reading “In the Trenches.”
The story’s title itself is a manifestation of wit and poetic aesthetics. By just reading the title, one can tell the kind of story they are about to be engaged in. Trenches are places where people work hard to save others’ lives. Additionally, using the word “trenches” brings the image of warfare.
The visual imagery further manifests throughout the story, depicting a picture of hopelessness and fear. The author describes how a rodent jerked him off. He describes the rodent as standing three feet away from his face and looking steadily at him (Harrison, 1987, para. 57). His description of the rat brings the visual image of its size and the scenario into focus.
Charles Yale Harrison uses auditory imagery to describe the attacks against him and the troops in the military trenches. He aesthetically uses specific words that create a “sound” as one reads the story. For instance, he uses words such as “coughing”, “slither”, and “panting” to bring about the physical suffering and fear among his fellow troop members (Harrison, 1987, para. 2-3).
Moreover, through the story, words such as “terrific roar”, “night whistled”, and “faint sound”, among others, create the image of horrible attacks and the sound of blasts during the war (Harrison). The unique use of sensory images creates an emotional connection between the reader and the author’s rough experiences during the war. Therefore, “In the Trenches” is lively and emotive, making the reader sympathize with the narrator.
Reference
Harrison, C.Y. (1987). In the trenches. In Generals Die in Bed. Potlatch.