Imagery in Desiree's Baby

Dark and light imagery: Images of dark and light appears throughout the visual descriptions of the scenes and characters of “Désirée’s Baby.” In most cases, the attention is paid to darkness, which is used to describe the Aubigny estate and Armand’s character. In such cases, dark imagery clues readers into the shadowy sides of Armand—his violence and anger—and of the estate—its upholding of slavery.

Imagery Examples in Desiree's Baby:

Désirée's Baby

"pall..." See in text (Désirée's Baby)

A “pall” is a cloth that is spread over a coffin or hearse. Chopin chooses imagery that reveals the dark nature of the L’Abri plantation. The “sad,” “wide,” “black,” appearance of the house, and the description of the “solemn oaks” creates an ominous tone. Madame Valmondé’s shivering suggests that the L’Abri plantation is dark, cold, and eerie place. Further, the appearance of the plantation mirrors Armand’s own characteristics just as Désirée’s outward appearance mirrors her internal character.

Kayla, Owl Eyes Staff

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