How does Clive Cussler use imagery in Cyclops?

Imagery:

"No one would have thought it to look at them. They considered themselves moral-minded citizens doing a job for their country. The last thing any of them expected to see in a mirror was the reflection of a cold-blooded killer. To say that the President had his audience in the palm of his hand would be an understatement."

"Velikov grinned crookedly. He seemed to have no nerves at all."