Example 1:
> "The old woman's hands, gnarled like the branches of a willow weeping over a forgotten stream, meticulously folded the worn, brown paper bag, her gaze fixed on the faded photographs within."
* Why it's literary nonfiction: This sentence uses vivid imagery and figurative language (simile) to create a strong impression of the woman's appearance and actions. It goes beyond simple description to evoke emotion and a sense of place.
Example 2:
> "The silence in the courtroom was a heavy thing, pressing down on us like a suffocating blanket, punctuated only by the rhythmic ticking of the grandfather clock in the corner."
* Why it's literary nonfiction: This sentence uses personification (giving human qualities to silence) and metaphor to create a visceral, sensory experience of the courtroom's atmosphere. It engages the reader emotionally and immerses them in the scene.
Example 3:
> "He spoke of his childhood, not with bitterness, but with a quiet resignation, as if he had long ago come to terms with the hardships he had endured."
* Why it's literary nonfiction: This sentence focuses on the emotional and psychological aspect of the subject, revealing character traits and motivations through precise word choice and subtle observation. It goes beyond simply reporting facts to offer insight and analysis.
Example 4:
> "The city, a sprawling tapestry of concrete and steel, pulsated with an energy that was both exhilarating and exhausting."
* Why it's literary nonfiction: This sentence uses metaphor and vivid sensory language to create a powerful image of the city, capturing both its grandeur and its inherent tension. It goes beyond straightforward description to evoke a sense of place and atmosphere.
Key characteristics of sentences in literary nonfiction:
* Evocative language: Use of imagery, figurative language, and strong verbs to create a vivid and emotional experience for the reader.
* Focus on human experience: Exploration of the subject's thoughts, feelings, and motivations, revealing their humanity and complexity.
* Lyrical prose: Sentences that flow smoothly and rhythmically, creating a sense of artistry and engaging the reader on a deeper level.
* Connection to a larger theme: Each sentence contributes to the overall purpose and message of the work, whether it's exploring a specific event, revealing a personal truth, or offering insight into a larger social issue.