Prepatory writing exercise: setting imagery

I was thinking of exercises that would help us prepare the imagery that will ensure that we are ready to commit story to paper. Here's one to try: Take one of the settings from your novel (ideally, the setting of at least one key scene) and write it as a deserted, abandoned place (i.e., without any of your characters). Infuse your writing with a strong emotion.

I'll have to come back to do this one (no time at lunch today, alas).