Answer: The author uses figurative language, particularly similes and descriptive imagery, to convey the oppressive and mysterious atmosphere of the Caribbean setting, which reflects the cultural perceptions and superstitions of sailors regarding Ship-Trap Island.
Cite: The passage includes phrases such as "thick warm blackness" and "like moist black velvet," which create an intense visual and tactile experience for the reader. Whitney remarks on the "curious dread" sailors have about the island, hinting at an underlying danger associated with it.
Explain: The simile "like moist black velvet" emphasizes the inescapable and suffocating nature of the night, creating a sense of unease that mirrors the local folklore and fears surrounding Ship-Trap Island. By describing the night in such a sensory manner, the author enhances the cultural element that suggests a mystical element tied to the island's reputation. Whitney's mention of sailors' superstitions also connects the setting to the cultural beliefs of those who navigate these treacherous waters, hinting at deeper fears tied to the unknown and the dangers of isolation in the wilderness.
Summarize: Through figurative language, the author establishes a heavy, ominous atmosphere in the Caribbean setting that reflects cultural superstitions and the fear sailors associate with Ship-Trap Island. This use of imagery and simile enriches the reading experience and deepens the thematic context of isolation and danger.