How does Peter Jenkins use imagery in A Walk Across America?

Imagery:

"I felt as if Stephen was dangling sacred carrots in front of his people so he could keep his followers full of far-out explanations for God and the Universe. The more Stephen and his select assistants talked, the more psychedelic it got."

"Now I was at the southern tip, ready to cross the border with my last impression of Alabama being a helpful and gracious black trooper. This state turned out to be one of the friendliest experiences I'd ever had."