Books and bookstores
The most important imagery of the book is the 24-Hour Bookstore itself. The visual aspect of the building is old, but quaint and cozy, like neighborhood bookstores that the reader might know. The local aspect of the shop contrasts with the imagery of Clay's professional endeavors, which are defined by main-stream life in the market. The bookstore is depicted as a quiet, timeless escape from the world.
Imagery of mystery and intrigue
A puzzle, markings on the wall, secret hidden nooks and crannies, and surprise mysterious visitors asking for strange books—these are all part of the imagery depicting the mysterious aspect of life. The imagery points to the mystery of the human experience, which is what fills the bookstore shelves. The depictions of intrigue are a mental reminder to be curious, even when life seems ordinary.
Imagery of business
Big cities are depicted, as well as life in the professional business world, the life of suits and ties and business meetings. These depictions work together as a kind of reference point. Although the professional world is all about technological advance, cutting edge products, and competition, the realm of books and literature is restful, intriguing, and restorative.
Codes and ciphers
Another critical kind of imagery that is used in the book is the depiction of codes and ciphers. The cipher prevents Clay and company from infiltrating the secret society, solving the puzzle, and finally, they resort to technology. By aligning technological advances with the human journey for discovery, they hope to eventually discover the secret meanings of complicated, encoded objects.
