How does Thomas Pynchon use imagery in V?

Example of Imagery:

"For it's said (and not without reason) that no sooner does a ship like the Scaffold single up all lines than certain Navy wives are out of their civvies and into barmaid uniforms, flexing their beer carrying arms and practicing a hooker's sweet smile; even as the N.O.B. band is playing "Auld Lang Syne" and the destroyers are blowing stacks in black flakes all over the cuckolds-to-be standing manly at attention, taking leave with rue and a tiny grin."