The imagery of Virginia
The author commences the book by depicting the sense of sight to readers when he introduces Virginia Newman Corbett. The author says, "In 1949, Virginia is seven years old, and she is wearing a bright-red polka-dot dress and bright red patent-leather shoes." This description paints a visual image of Virginia to readers to enable them to see both the setting and context of the story. Virginia is later explained to be the protagonist's mother.
Oji’s reaction
The description of Oji's reaction when he sees Virginia from the military elementary school depicts sight imagery. As Virginia steps out, Oji leaps and wags his tail and ears to welcome her. Oji jumps from one side to the other touching Virginia's shoulder to welcome her and escort her home. The imagery shows the connection between Virginia and her pet dog. Many years after the death of Oji, Virginia remembers his compassion, love, care, and affection.
The imagery of the limousine
A typical evening of Virginia’s family is described vividly using imagery. The author writes, “Here is how a typical evening goes: The car-a limousine-pulled up, bearing Virginia and her parents. The driver opens the door, and the Corbetts steps out of the vehicle, often onto a red strip of carpet." The imagery shows that Virginia comes from a well-off family because her father is a prominent military man in the U.S. Army.
