Explain one way Twain uses imagery in the book.

The imagery of Virginia represents a kind of spiritual retreat in this book. There is an implicit cycle shown through this use of imagery, because as Twain jumps back and forth between golden California and verdant Virginia, he is also alternating between work and rest, between adventure and retreat. He allows Virginia to be a place of temporary solace, which is helpful because underneath witty prose, he's clearly disappointed about certain aspects of life.