The author's word choice plays a significant role in establishing the tone of the scene. Words like "skinned," "stubbornly," and "frantically" convey a sense of urgency and tension. "Skinned" suggests a rushed and possibly reckless action, which sets the stage for Maddie's desperation. The term "stubbornly" personifies the door, implying that it is resisting his efforts, which enhances the feeling of frustration and helplessness.
Additionally, words like "pounded," "snatched," and "escape" contribute to a tone of anxiety and intensity. "Pounded" evokes a sense of aggression and desperation, emphasizing Maddie's growing panic. "Snatched" indicates a hurried, frantic movement, reflecting his urgency and lack of control over the situation. The mention of the clock "taking away closer to zero" adds a ticking time bomb element, heightening the tension and suggesting that time is running out.
Overall, the word choices create a tone that is frantic, urgent, and filled with a sense of impending doom, drawing the reader into Maddie’s emotional state as he confronts an increasingly dire situation.