Slushy Streets
The narrator asserts, "By the time they stepped out into the slushy streets together, Benny had begun to feel that maybe she was still made of all of those things that Joanie once saw in her and that maybe someone else could see them, too." This description creates a common sight in urban environments of streets covered in melting snow. In this excerpt, Benny has met Steve and they have connected over music in a bookstore. This encounter is a turning point for Benny after a difficult breakup with Joanie and moving to New York. The phrase "slushy streets" reflects the challenging and potentially unforgiving nature of the city. It also signifies a fresh start and a possibility of a new relationship with Steve.
Coastal Beauty
The following imagery describes the natural beauty of the coastal area where Pearl and Covey live: "That seemingly bottomless pool of water with its shifting colors. The beaches nearby with their aquamarine coves, ringed by thick vegetation. The sands that lit up at night with tiny, glowing creatures." These descriptions evoke a sense of enchantment and wonder creating a strong sense of place. Pearl reflects on her relationship with Covey and her deep connection to the coastal region where they live. The imagery of the beautiful natural surroundings highlights the contrast between the external beauty of the environment and the internal turmoil within the family.
Saltwater Sting
The narrator states, "Seeing the video of the dedication ceremony on the Internet brought the sting of salt water to Eleanor’s eyes." It conveys the emotional impact of watching the video of Etta Pringle's beach dedication ceremony. In this excerpt, Eleanor, who lives in California, reflects on Etta Pringle’s fame as she remembers that her late husband would have taken pride in Pringle's achievements. The phrase creates a powerful image of tears welling up in Eleanor's eyes. It suggests a deep yearning for a sense of connection to her Caribbean roots and culture.
Breakfast Scene
In the scene, Marble has traveled from England to California to meet her brother and sister, Byron and Benny. The narrator says, "She tries to focus on these two strangers who have summoned her here and are watching her every move, she tries to mind her manners, tries to smile warmly but not too broadly, she follows them to the dining nook where they have laid a sunny-looking table with toast, jam, eggs, coffee, and an inferior brand of tea, but rather promising-looking scones." The imagery centers on the description of the dining nook and the breakfast table. It provides a sense of domesticity and the tension in the moment as Marble navigates unfamiliar territory. The contrast between meals hints at the blend of uncertainty and hope in this meeting.
