How does Isaac Asimov use imagery in Foundation and Empire?

Imagery:

"But better to be alone during these crippling bouts than to endure the prinking of the courtiers, their lavish sympathy, their soft, condescending dullness. Better to be alone than to watch those insipid masks behind which spun the tortuous speculations on the chances of death and the fortunes of the succession."

"There was a dead hand pushing all of us; the mighty general and the great Emperor; my world and your world - the dead hand of Hari Seldon.