The parallel plots present two characters who go to the same high school but don't know each other, and there is a possibility of them meeting on the beach. This setup creates tension because, while Ji is focused on her art and the tranquility of the sunrise, the potential for an unexpected encounter with another character introduces uncertainty and anticipation about what might happen next. Both characters have their individual journeys, and the reader is left wondering how their paths might intertwine and what implications that interaction could have for each of them. This anticipation builds tension as it suggests that the peaceful moment Ji enjoys could suddenly change with the introduction of another character.
Ji had her art supplies packed in a plastic bin strapped to the back of her bike. She'd left her house before dawn to catch the sunrise over the Pacific. Her dad had fussed over her by making sure she had her reflective gear on and in working order.
He'd also made her check twice that she had her cellphone. Grateful for her father's attentions and anxious to be free of them, Ji had set out at a moderate pace while most high school kids slept in on a Saturday.
Ji peddled on and thought about how she loved to capture her surroundings at sunrise: the tipuana tree near her back patio, the tram map at the Lemon Grove station that would take her to downtown San Diego, the evening primroses that would stay open until the high, hot sun shined at noon.
Today, Ji planned to sketch at the beach and decide on a new color pallet for her next painting. Once at the beach, Ji unpacked her sketchbook, pencils, and paint pens. She spread her wind jacket on the sand like it was a blanket and began drawing.
Use the beginning of the story to answer the question.
Analyze how this parallel plot creates tension.
(1 point)
The parallel plots set up a scene
• where two characters meet to find out about something mysterious on the beach.
The parallel plots present two characters who go to the same
• high school but don't know each other, and there is a possibility of them meeting on the beach.
The parallel plots describe two unrelated characters who will
• likely interact in the same setting with an unknown form on the beach.
The parallel plots introduce two friends who are doing different
• activities on a Saturday morning, and this creates problems with the friendship.
1 answer