It was already dark and the city was drifting like a bed of seaweed towards the lighted cafés of the upper town.
The scene depicts a city at night, where darkness has settled over the streets. The city is described as slowly moving or drifting, similar to seaweed floating in water, under the influence of nearby illuminated cafes located in the upper part of town. This imagery sets a calm, almost dreamlike atmosphere, emphasizing the quiet transition from day to night and the city's gentle movement.
In the quote, the city's gentle drift toward the glowing cafes creates a sense of serenity and subtle motion. The comparison to seaweed enhances the idea of a peaceful, natural flow, suggesting that the city's evening rhythm is unhurried and tranquil. The scene invites the reader to imagine the quiet beauty of a city easing into night, with life gradually shifting towards the inviting lights of social spaces above.