How does Joyce Carol Oates use imagery in them?

The author introduces beautiful imagery and language techniques, which can be quite startling amidst the despair of the characters' lives. When describing the perfection of the library for Maureen, the author uses the simile of the silence being like a beautifulglass vase, which could be shattered at any moment. The library is Maureen's haven but she knows that any good thing can be violently taken from her at any time and this visual imagery brings that point to the reader subtly but with much impact.