The Tell Tale Heart by Edgar Allan Poe 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. "The Tell Tale Heart" by Edgar Allan Poe Question Use the passage to answer the question. How does the author create meaning in this passage? (1 point) Responses by giving details about why the character committed the murder by giving details about why the character committed the murder by exploring the setting through the character’s motive by exploring the setting through the character’s motive by showing the perspective of other characters in the story by showing the perspective of other characters in the story by describing the setting in a manner that increases tension by describing the setting in a manner that increases tension

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The author creates meaning in this passage by describing the setting in a manner that increases tension. The darkness of the room, described as "black as pitch" with "thick darkness," heightens the suspense and creates an ominous atmosphere. The character's cautious movements and the psychological play of triumph and anxiety underscore the tension. This setting amplifies the reader's sense of dread as the narrator approaches the old man, building anticipation for the violent climax. The slow and deliberate action of pushing the door open reflects the growing intensity of the moment, enhancing the overall feeling of unease and foreboding.