Chichikov's Nose Blowing (Auditory Imagery)
The narrator describes Chichikov towards the beginning of the novel: "The gentleman's manners were rather august, and he blew his nose extremely loudly. How he did this is a mystery, but his nose sounded like a trumpet." This auditory imagery suggests that Chichikov blows his nose very loudly and emits a uniquely piercing sound when he does so.
Pliushkin's Shadowy Hollow (Visual Imagery)
While describing Pliushkin's estate, the narrator writes: "The green, sun-drenched thickets gave way in places to a hollow that the light could not reach and which gaped, like a dark maw: it was completely covered in shadow and in its dark depths once could just discern the course of a narrow path, ruined railings, a collapsing gazebo, a half-dead hollow willow trunk, a shallow area of low scrub which bristled up from the horribly overgrown withered area..." This striking visual imagery gives a sense of all of the shadows and darkness that cover his land. It highlights the fact that his estate is in disrepair and decay.
Women Crowding Chichikov (Olfactory Imagery)
At a ball, women interested in Chichikov surround him: "The ladies immediately besieged him like a radiant garland and brought with them whole clouds of the most varied fragrances: one wafted roses, another smelled of spring and violets, a third was completely infused with mignonette: Chichikov just raised his nose and sniffed." This olfactory imagery gives the sense that the women around Chichikov are trying to woo him, using the smell of perfume to make a lasting impression.
Stomach-Turning Brandy (Haptic Imagery)
Kostanzhoglo has a conversation with a peasant as he walks to his house. The peasant remarks to him that it is difficult to get ahead in the world and that everyone is constantly trying to swindle him. Specifically, he notes that "The brandy-sellers have started selling these liquors where just one glass turns your stomach so much you need to drink a bucketful of water." This haptic imagery depicts the low quality of this brandy while giving a vivid idea of how overwhelming its side effects are.
