How does Timothy Zahn use imagery in Dark Force Rising?

Imagery:

"Karrde's gaze defocused, his eyes flattened with the memory. 'It was just over fifteen years ago,' he said, his voice distant, the thumbs of his intertwined hands rubbing slowly against each other."

"Chewbacca stared at her a moment, rumbling something deep in his throat."

The maitrakh gave a long hiss.