IGCSE Descriptive and Narrative Writing (Examples)

The View From Above

6) Imagine you are up high and describe what kind of landscape lies below. Focus on your thoughts and feelings about being so high up. Write about 350-450 words.

      I stood gazing at the exhilarating view from the top of the rocky, steep mountain. The cold climate had frozen me like a pea dumped in a chilly freezer. I shivered as if ice had reached up to my vertebrae and replaced my spine. The cold air that blew into my face engulfed my entire body. The strands of my hair flew and collided with my face repeatedly. The multiple layers of clothing could not protect me against the swish of the frosty air. 

      The surface leading up to the peak was moist and damp. I could feel the soles of my shoes sink into the wet soil as I took a step towards the edge of the cliff. I had finally felt alive. The fresh air filled up my dead lungs as I inhaled, making me feel alive for the first time. It was like a dried rose finally being watered after a century. The aroma of damp soil filled the air. A cool breeze swirled around me as colorful birds chirped in harmony. Their symphony and playful dance cheered up the atmosphere. 

      As I sat down, on a bulky rock near the cliff of the mountain, an eagle soared up the cliff at incredible speed. I swayed my arms through the weeds, dandelions, and wildflowers that were being blown helplessly by the wind on the cliff and grabbed a bunch of them. They were vivid and gorgeous. 

      As I peeked down the cliff, there was a vast, mesmerizing view to explore and admire. It felt funny how the largest things felt so small from a distance. Greenery flourished down on earth everywhere. Even though it was cold, the arrays of sunlight gleaming down on earth remained the same. The haze shimmered over velvety-green and snow-clad mountains. I could spot multi-hued flowers and the green fauna everywhere as I peered down. 

      Somewhere down, stood large buildings, and splashes of red, orange and crimson were found everywhere. The brilliant blue sky was a perfect contrast to the landscape. The fluffy clouds had puffed up like cotton candy. It was an artist's delight! A sight to the sore eyes even. I felt free and relieved by the peaceful vibes that flew around. I felt like I was away from all troubles and was living my best self. There was no room for fear, anger, politics, stress, and issues. Soon the orange glow of the sun setting began to spread and smeared itself across the sky. The celestial aura and the ethereal beauty of nature couldn't be explained in words!