How Does Doris Lessing Use Imagery In Through The Tunnel

In any individual’s lifetime, there are countless numbers of obstacles we must face. It is up to us, however, how we go about overcoming them. Throughout Doris Lessing’s “Through the Tunnel”, she uses numerous literary techniques in order to make the reader sympathize for Jerry, the story’s protagonist. Most notably, Lessing uses a plethora of imagery to give a mind- blowing vision on what is happening. She also uses symbolism, which gives us a deeper meaning than what is on the surface. Not to mention, during the story, her distinct tone changes dramatically. These techniques are all used in order to fully express how challenging and life jeopardizing certain obstacles can be.
Firstly, this story has marvelous imagery. It is used when an author needs to describe what the reader would see, but uses descriptive words to provide us with visual experiences. For example, in the narrative, Lessing chooses to invoke many senses when she states; “An immense swelling pain filled his head, and then the darkness cracked with an explosion of green light.” This gives the reader a clear sense of color, Jerry’s surroundings, and what pain he is feeling at that moment. Many times during the course of his struggles, it feels
On one side, there was the safe and harmless beach, where Jerry would be with his mom, protected and shielded; while on the other side, we had the, “wild and rocky bay”, as described by the author. This is exactly Jerry’s conflict in the narrative. Lessing is symbolizing how he has a part of himself which is being sheltered and still wants to with his mother, but he also has a place where he can be an individual, and challenge himself in order to prove what he can do without his mother. This is what makes the story true to its thesis; we knew when Jerry went to the dangerous side of the beach, he would try his hardest to overcome gaining