Upon the eighth night I was more than usually cautious in opening the door. A watch’s minute hand moves more quickly than did mine. Never before that night had I felt the extent of my own powers—of my sagacity. I could scarcely contain my feelings of triumph. To think that there I was, opening the door, little by little, and he not even to dream of my secret deeds or thoughts. I fairly chuckled at the idea; and perhaps he heard me; for he moved on the bed suddenly, as if startled. Now you may think that I drew back—but no. His room was as black as pitch with the thick darkness, (for the shutters were close fastened, through fear of robbers,) and so I knew that he could not see the opening of the door, and I kept pushing it on steadily, steadily.

How does the author create meaning in this passage?(1 point)Responsesby exploring the setting through the character’s motiveby exploring the setting through the character’s motiveby giving details about why the character committed the murderby giving details about why the character committed the murderby describing the setting in a manner that increases tensionby describing the setting in a manner that increases tensionby showing the perspective of other characters in the story

1 answer

The author creates meaning in this passage by describing the setting in a manner that increases tension. The character's cautious approach to opening the door, coupled with the oppressive darkness of the room, builds a sense of suspense and foreboding. The detailed depiction of the character's emotions and actions—specifically their pride in their cunning and the thrill of secrecy—heightens the tension as it draws the reader into the character's psychological turmoil. This atmosphere sets the stage for the impending climax of the story.