How does Armistead Maupin use imagery in Tales of the City?

Imagery:

"Connie's apartment was a potpourri of plastic Tiffany lamps and ankle deep shag carpeting, needlepoint Snoopy pictures and 'Hang in There, Baby' kitten posters ...macramé plant hangers and - please no, thought Mary Ann - a Pet Rock".

"[The cat] ... was beautiful, independent and loved. He belonged to no-one in particular ... but he moved freely through a wide circle of benefactors and friends. Why couldn't she do that?"