Box Fort
The box fort is described as huge with a "hilarious amount of cardboard" and other stolen items, such as tables, to create the image of an impressive structure. Vampire Weekend playing from a wireless speaker further sets the tone for a lively atmosphere. Harry Greene adds to this atmosphere by wearing an inappropriately revealing cheerleader costume. The description of red being the main color of clothing worn by everyone present gives an almost surreal feeling to the setting, while Victoria's black Truham uniform provides contrast to this image. Additionally, Harry's persona is captured through his tall hair and loud personality. Finally, Nick is mentioned at the end providing an idea of who he is in comparison to those around him - which stands out among the red-clad crowd. All these elements together exude a bustling and energetic environment that captures both the moment and its people perfectly.
Photos
Charlie describes the photos as "tinged purple and blue and orange, muted colors, a little blurry, like polaroids at an art-school exhibition." The photos have an artistic quality to them despite not being taken by someone with much interest in photography or art. Furthermore, Charlie portrays Nick taking these photos - capturing moments of their life together such as when Nick took a photo of him against the view with the sunlit horizon, fields, and river. Additionally, there is imagery associated with sleep to illustrate intimacy; for example, he talks about being asleep in his bed, curled up on his sofa with the TV illuminating his hair tips. All these images evoke peace and contentment between Nick and Charlie. In conclusion, the narrative effectively creates an atmosphere of comfort and connection between two people who care deeply for each other.
Emotional Confusion
The most striking image is when Charlie is leaning against the wall in the basement, "all the dancers blurring in front of [him] under Harry’s flashing fairy lights." This image conjures a surreal atmosphere expressing Charlie's emotional confusion and despair. The dancer's blurred forms represent his inability to focus on anything but his thoughts as he grapples with Elle and Tao's abrupt decision to break up their relationship. It also acts as a metaphor for how Charlie feels disconnected from reality due to his overwhelming emotions. The reference to Harry's fairy lights further enhances this feeling of alienation, as they are often associated with magical, otherworldly things that cannot be explained rationally. Additionally, it indicates that despite Charlie's pain and confusion, there is still some beauty around him.
Beach
Nick paints a picture of a peaceful beach that is seemingly made just for them. He depicts the thin pier with its bench at the end, the massive arcade across from the beach, and the few people who are there - mostly dog walkers and elderly folk. He also mentions how the beach is much nicer than other beaches nearby, which are often packed with teenagers and toddlers fighting for space. Later on in the narration, he describes taking off their shoes and socks to go paddling in the sea, only to realize it was not a good idea once their jeans got wet. Finally, he talks about taking photos and playing in an arcade before sitting at the end of the pier to watch the sunset. All these details depict a peaceful summer day spent together by Nick and Charlie.
