Invisible Fist
The imagery of "a huge invisible fist drive itself into her gut" is used to describe the shock and surprise that Melba feels when she realizes that Holden is still alive. The visceral, physical sensation of the invisible fist serves as a metaphor for the intense emotional turmoil that Melba is experiencing. This imagery effectively conveys the sense of powerlessness and frustration that Melba is feeling at that moment, while also emphasizing the suddenness of the realization that Holden has survived. The imagery of the fist provides a vivid image that allows the reader to experience the same emotions that Melba is feeling, allowing them to sympathize with her plight.
Sam's Quarters
The narrator uses imagery in the narrative when Bull visits Sam's quarters: "Her rooms were clean, neat, and cluttered. The air smelled like industrial lubricant and old laundry." This imagery serves to establish the environment of Sam's quarters, providing a sense of her living space. The combination of industrial lubricant and old laundry creates a unique scent that suggests both a mechanic's shop and a homey atmosphere. Furthermore, the fact that it is both clean and cluttered is an effective way to show that Sam takes care of her space but also has a busy lifestyle. This imagery conveys the idea that while Sam may not have much in terms of material possessions, she still has put effort into making her room feel like home.
Sphere
One example of imagery is when Holden approaches the sphere and is swallowed up by it. The imagery of the sphere creates an image of a living, breathing creature, one that is powerful and mysterious, and that consumes Holden. It serves to accentuate the alien and otherworldly nature of the sphere, as something that takes in a human being and remains mysterious and enigmatic. Furthermore, the imagery of the inside of the sphere is also powerful, as it is described as being “textured almost like moss” and having tiny lights “like fireflies”. This creates an image of a strange and alien world, one that is both beautiful and intimidating. It is a world that Holden is entering on his own, and it accentuates the sense of danger and mystery that surrounds the sphere.
Entrance
The imagery of Bull entering the room is vivid and evocative. Here, Anna imagines Bull's mechanical legs as a sort of herald, "whining" and "thumping" with each step, the electric sound of the machine, and the heavy thump of his tread announcing his arrival. This imagery conveys the power and dignity of Bull's entrance, providing a contrast to his likely embarrassment at Anna's description of it. The imagery illustrates the idea of a "mixed group," as Bull's presence serves as a reminder of the differences between the people in the room, and yet serves to unify them, as his entrance is marked by a shared experience of awe and respect. The imagery highlights the idea that, despite their differences, they are united in their faith and love, and that this is more important than any other division.
The Alien Artefacts
The different extraterrestrial technologies and structures that the reader comes across in the book are portrayed with a mixture of awe and fear. They are frightening and interesting at the same time because of their advanced nature and unfamiliarity, which highlights the gap between our comprehension and the alien intelligence that made them.
