“The house was covered with a thick snow. As Joe continued walking toward the chimney smoke, he realized how quiet his surroundings were.”

Question

In the example, which story element has the most influence over the other story elements?
characters
theme
setting
plot

Answer 1

In the example provided, the setting has the most influence over the other story elements. The description of the house being "covered with a thick snow" and the “quiet surroundings” creates a specific atmosphere that can affect the characters' emotions and actions, the plot's development, and even hints at potential themes. The setting establishes a mood that shapes how the story unfolds and how the characters interact with their environment.