VignetteAccording to literarydevices.net, a vignette (pronounced vin-yet) is defined as:

A short scene that captures a single moment or a defining detail about a character, idea, or other element of the story. Vignettes are mostly descriptive; in fact, they often include little or no plot detail. They are not stand-alone literary works, nor are they complete plots or narratives. Instead, vignettes are small parts of a larger work, and can only exist as pieces of a whole story.

Vignettes are typically found in creative writing.

Vignettes use figurative language to help create a picture.

Simileo Definition: Comparing two unlike things using “like” or “as”o Example: Her eyes glistened like the sun.

Metaphoro Definition: Comparing two unlike things not using “like” or

“as”o Example: Her eyes are the ocean.

Personificationo Definition: Assigning human characteristics to something

nonhuman.o Example: The sorrowful moon was jealous of the

exuberant sun. Alliteration

o Definition: A series of words begins with the same consonant sound.

o Example: Sally sold seashells by the seashore.

Hyperbole

o Definition: Extreme exaggerationo Example: Jan had a million things to do for homework.

Imageryo Definition: Descriptive language that helps the reader feel

like they are there. Relates to sight, smell, touch, taste, and sound.

o Example: The aroma of cinnamon hit Bob in the face when he entered the warm, dark room.

Repetitiono Definition: Repeating a word or phrase.o Example: One day we will find freedom. One day we will

find peace. One day we will find equality.

EXAMPLE:

What not to write: She was scared.

What to write: As Cassie entered the dark, damp room, she instantly felt as if something was wrong. The miniscule hairs on the back of her neck awoke with the terror. Her shaking hands reached for the light switch. Her heart was pounding faster than the wings of a hummingbird.

**Your reader should feel like they are in your vignette. Be sure to give as many details as possible. You are SHOWING, not TELLING!

How old is Esperanza? Why do you think this? List figurative language/sensory details used in this vignette.

Name of vignette:

List events that happen in this vignette: __________________________________

How does Esperanza feel about her

identity in this vignette?

Dialogue: What are the characters saying?