Décor
The contrast between "the usual pastel displays of flowers in boring crystal vases" and "displays of darker flowers wrapped in things like leather or silver chains and black onyx or purple velvet vases lined with silver studs." This imagery contrasts the traditional floral displays and Lily's new idea of edgy, bold, and daring floral displays. Lily is pushing the boundaries of what is expected by creating something new and exciting. The imagery exudes excitement and adventure, as Lily takes a risk to make something unique and different. The new décor shows that Lily is entering into unknown territory and taking a risk to make something original.
Intimacy
Ryle’s body pressed against Lily as he moves his stethoscope around her chest is evocative as it displays their physical and emotional closeness. Lily is focused on his touch and the sensations it produces as he moves around her body. His arm wraps around her, and she can feel the warmth of his body against hers, as he holds her close. She is trying to move against him, but he is rock solid as the tremors begin to rush through her. Thereby, she can feel the intensity of the connection between them, and the power of the moment is overwhelming. The imagery of his lips on her neck, and then on the tattoo of the heart on her collarbone confirms the intimacy of their relationship and the depth of his emotions for her.
Domestic Violence
Ryle's arm coming out of nowhere and slamming into Lily, knocking her off balance is a crucial moment in the narrative. The force behind it causes her to hit her face against one of the cabinet door handles. The imagery of the arm coming out of nowhere imparts the sudden and unexpected nature of the action. Consequently, the depiction of the pain shooting through her eye and the weight pressing down on her emotions reveals the shock and devastation in the aftermath of the incident. The imagery of everything shattering around her—her tears, her heart, her laughter, and her soul—further underscores the emotional impact of the incident demonstrating the helplessness and despair that she feels.
Childbirth
The author uses vivid descriptions to depict the scene where the couple admires their newborn daughter. It starts with the doctor announcing the baby's birth, and then the couple is filled with "unequivocal elation" as they take in the sight of their daughter for the first time. Lily asserts, "I can only make out the outline of her, because my eyes are full of too many tears," to show how overwhelmed with emotion the couple is. They then describe their daughter's features in detail, such as counting her fingers and toes and admiring her red lips and cheeks. Finally, Lily describes how she "just can't stop staring at her," and how they both know that no one will ever be as beautiful as their daughter. This imagery of the couple's love and admiration for their daughter is incredibly powerful and moving.
