Question

The officers were satisfied. My manner had convinced them. I was singularly at ease. They sat, and while I answered cheerily, they chatted of familiar things. But, ere long, I felt myself getting pale and wished them gone. My head ached, and I fancied a ringing in my ears: but still they sat and still chatted. The ringing became more distinct:—it continued and became more distinct: I talked more freely to get rid of the feeling: but it continued and gained definiteness—until, at length, I found that the noise was not within my ears."The Tell Tale Heart" by Edgar Allen PoeQuestionUse the passage to answer the question.In 1–2 sentences, describe how the choices that the author makes in this paragraph build to the climax of the story.

Answer 1

In this passage, Edgar Allan Poe uses vivid imagery and escalating sensory details, such as the increasing distinctness of the ringing sound, to create an atmosphere of rising tension and unease. The protagonist's initial confidence contrasts sharply with their growing discomfort and desperation, effectively building suspense and leading to the climax where the psychological torment becomes unbearable.