The construction of mental representations of sounds, without the presence of actual auditory stimuli, is a literary device that enriches written and spoken works. It evokes the sensation of hearing, allowing audiences to experience sonic landscapes through descriptive language. For example, a passage describing “the rustling of leaves in the wind” or “the piercing shriek of a hawk” engages the sense of hearing imaginatively.
The incorporation of this technique into creative works enhances their immersiveness and emotional impact. By appealing to the sense of hearing, writers and speakers can create more vivid and memorable experiences for their audience. Historically, the careful crafting of sonic elements has been recognized as a powerful tool for storytelling and persuasion, evident in everything from ancient oral traditions to modern advertising.