Nictitating image is a poetic figure that flickers or blinks—like a nictitating membrane—between two states, meanings, or perceptions, creating momentary ambiguity or double vision; such images use rapid juxtaposition or paradox (“a bright darkness,” “silent thunder”) to unsettle stable interpretation, as in metaphysical conceits or Surrealist verse where perception itself becomes unstable and revelatory.

Nictitating image suggests quick, blinking perception like nictitating membrane. Creates flickering effect through rapid image succession. Related to cinematic technique in poetry. Study imagist compression and juxtaposition.