English as a Second Language – Writing | e-Consult

Answer: The writer effectively uses a range of grammatical and lexical structures to create a vivid and immersive impression of the marketplace. The opening sentence, "The air thrummed with a chaotic energy," immediately establishes a dynamic and lively atmosphere. The use of the verb "thrummed" is a strong, active verb that conveys a sense of constant movement and vibration.

The writer employs sensory details throughout the extract. The phrase "rising and falling tide of insistent persuasion" uses a metaphor to describe the vendors' voices, creating a powerful image of their persistent calls. The description of the fabrics as "a vibrant tapestry" uses a simile to evoke a visual image of colour and texture. The inclusion of specific scents like "cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves" and sounds like "bleating of goats" and "clatter of pots" appeals to the reader's senses, making the scene feel more real.

The use of short, punchy sentences, such as "Children darted through the throng, their laughter a sharp counterpoint...", creates a sense of immediacy and energy. The overall effect is to transport the reader to the marketplace and allow them to experience it through their senses. The writer's deliberate choice of words and sentence structures contributes significantly to the overall impact of the description.