Short Answer 
The answer explains that imagery is descriptive language that engages the senses to enhance emotional connection in literature. In the poems “Harlem” and “The Weary Blues,” imagery illustrates the characters’ struggles and movements, while also conveying emotional depth, inviting readers to empathize with their experiences.
Step 1: Understand Imagery
Imagery refers to the use of descriptive language that appeals to our senses. It helps to create vivid pictures in the reader’s mind by incorporating details that engage sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell. In literature, imagery is essential for deepening the reader’s understanding and emotional connection with the text.
Step 2: Identify the Use of Imagery in Poetry
In the poems “Harlem” and “The Weary Blues,” imagery plays a crucial role in illustrating the experiences of the characters. The lines from these poems highlight aspects such as:
- The burden of their struggles.
- The physical movements of the characters, like their lazy sway.
- The overall mood conveyed through visual details.
Step 3: Recognize the Impact of Visual Imagery
The use of visual imagery not only enriches the description but also enhances the emotional weight of the poems. By painting a picture in the reader’s mind, the poets effectively convey themes related to hardship and resilience. This layer of meaning is significant, as it invites readers to empathize with the characters’ journeys.