What type of language is used to create sensory impressions in a literary work?

Imagery is the type of language used to create sensory impressions in a literary work. It involves the use of descriptive words and phrases that appeal to the five senses—sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell. By employing imagery, an author can evoke vivid mental pictures and emotional responses from the reader, enhancing the overall experience and depth of the narrative.

For example, when an author uses descriptive language to paint a scene, such as "the sun set behind the mountains, casting a golden hue over the landscape," it allows the reader to visualize the scene, feel the warmth of the sun, and perceive the beauty of the moment. This sensory engagement is what makes imagery a powerful tool in literature, enabling readers to connect more intimately with the text.

Other options, while important elements of literature, do not specifically focus on evoking sensory impressions in the same way. Symbolism involves the use of symbols to represent ideas or concepts, dialogue refers to the spoken exchanges between characters, and prose is simply the ordinary form of written or spoken language, without the structured meter of poetry.