Another Example: Descriptive Mode

Southwestern Garden
How does her garden grow in the searing summer heat? She
barely survives, slathering herself in slimy coconut-scented sun-
screen, drinking swimming pools-full of water, walking as slowly
as a mummy, and topping herself off with a large-brimmed straw
hat. She exerts the minimum effort required to pull weeds before
retiring to her air-conditioned kitchen, declaring that it’s too hot
for humans. Rodents, toads, lizards, and even insects seem to agree,
as they rest in shady spots between rocks and under bushes.
But the plants prosper in the heat. Five types of lavender rule
the plot. The lacy French kind’s roots pop up everywhere, strangling
the ornamental grasses. The gray-green utilitarian type, the green
utilitarian type, and the grayer-than-green utilitarian type sprout
tiny lavender buds that exude a clean, antiseptic odor that deer and
armadillos avoid.
Surprises abound. The ornamental peppers’ yellow-orange-red
hues reflect the sun’s heat. Bite one of those little red ones, and
your mouth will know heat. The skullscap produces tiny frail pink
flowers whose looks belie the plant’s healing strength. The spineless
nopal cactus appears smooth as butter. Run your finger across it,
though, and you’ll be picking out prickles for days.

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