IGCSE descriptive essay | 2011 May-Jun | Describe an alien's first impression of a town centre known



Question

You are advised to write between 350 and 500 words on the following topic:

Describe an alien’s first impression of a town centre known to you.

Model Essay

Zorgon 5X-T, an interstellar explorer from the Andromeda galaxy, descended into the town center of Willow Creek with a mixture of curiosity and caution. His sleek, silver spacecraft, camouflaged against the early morning mist, hovered silently above the town square before landing gently in a secluded park. The alien’s many eyes, glowing a soft azure, took in the surroundings with keen interest.

The town center of Willow Creek, nestled between rolling hills and a winding river, was bustling with early morning activity. From his vantage point in the park, Zorgon observed a scene that was both perplexing and fascinating.

The first thing that caught his attention was the buildings. Unlike the sleek, crystalline structures of his home world, the architecture here was varied and whimsical. Brick facades with ivy-covered walls stood next to modern glass storefronts, creating a patchwork of styles and colors. The town hall, a grand building with a clock tower that chimed melodiously every hour, seemed to be the focal point. Its red brick exterior and ornate, arched windows gave it an air of importance.

Zorgon’s multiple sensory organs twitched as he picked up the myriad sounds of the town center. The hum of human conversation, the occasional bark of a dog, and the rhythmic thud of footsteps on cobblestone created a symphony of life. He was particularly intrigued by the street musicians. A man with a guitar strummed a lively tune, while a woman nearby played a violin with closed eyes, lost in her music. The melodies blended together, creating an atmosphere of warmth and community.

The scents in the air were a bewildering mixture for Zorgon’s highly sensitive olfactory sensors. He detected the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting from a café, mingling with the sweet smell of baked goods from a nearby bakery. There was also a hint of floral fragrance from the flower stalls that lined the market square. Bouquets of vibrant flowers, unlike any Zorgon had seen, added splashes of color to the scene.

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As Zorgon ventured further into the town center, he marveled at the diversity of the human species. People of all ages, shapes, and sizes moved through the square with purpose. Some hurried along, clutching steaming cups of coffee and briefcases, while others strolled leisurely, chatting and laughing. The children, with their boundless energy, darted around, playing games and chasing each other, their laughter ringing through the air.

The market stalls were another point of interest. Vendors enthusiastically hawked their wares, from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Zorgon was particularly fascinated by the fruit stand. The vendor, an elderly man with a weathered face and a kind smile, held up a bright red apple and offered it to a small child. The child’s eyes lit up with delight as she accepted the fruit, her smile infectious. Zorgon made a note to study these “apples” further; they seemed to bring joy to the humans.

As the morning progressed, the sun climbed higher, casting a warm glow over the town center. The light reflected off the glass storefronts and created dappled patterns on the cobblestones. Zorgon felt a sense of calm and contentment emanating from the humans. Despite the differences in their appearances and activities, there was a sense of unity and shared purpose that he found deeply intriguing.

In his report to the Andromeda Council, Zorgon described Willow Creek’s town center as a place of vibrant life and harmonious diversity. The humans, with their varied architecture, music, and daily routines, created a tapestry of culture that was both complex and beautiful. Zorgon’s first impression was one of admiration and a profound respect for the resilience and creativity of the human species.

Word Count: 612