Making emphasis on observations that have included some type of polarization analysis, I concentrate on two subjects. First, the vector magnetic field configuration of structures with different sizes is reviewed. I cover from magnetic knots, and their relation to small scale magnetic elements, to large sunspots. In doing so, a different concept of how a pore should be described is proposed. Second, the fibril organization of the magnetic field in penumbrae is reviewed. Both, field strength and inclination fluctuations in the azimuthal direction are seen. The necessary gas pressure fluctuations needed to achieve force balance are analyzed. As a solution to the missing Evershed flow problem, the findings of a return flux surrounding sunspots by Westendorp et al. (1997b) are considered.