Touching the void

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1.) Joe's account starts with the action verb 'hit' which underlines the falling action, literally, at the very beginning. Hence, we already sympathize with the character as we predict pain after the fall. The verb 'shattering' is audio visual imagery that helps to build a clear sensual image of the physical pain in Joe as he felt a 'blow in [his] knees.' Sympathy arouses. The negative verbs, 'splitting' and 'screamed' shows reaction to the 'shattering blow', reinforcing the pain. The short sentence 'I slid, head first, on my back' mirrors the fast paced action in Joe's account. The sense of confusion is hinted at as Joe vaguely describes the events. The future tense narration 'would be ripped' highlights concern for Simon despite his grave situation. It builds interest for the reader. The phrase 'sudden violent stop' brings about the uncertainty of events. Thus, emphasizes on the precariousness of death itself. Confusion as well is tinted upon as he has no idea of events.

2.) In the second paragraph, though there is change of moment there are fast paced thoughts. 'My thoughts raced madly' is a personification as he personifies thoughts which paint the insanity and unawareness of events.