"Off there to the right—somewhere—is a large island," said Whitney." It's rather a mystery—"

"What island is it?" Rainsford asked.

"The old charts call it 'Ship-Trap Island,'" Whitney replied." A suggestive name, isn't it? Sailors have a curious dread of the place. I don't know why. Some superstition—"

"Can't see it," remarked Rainsford, trying to peer through the dank tropical night that was palpable as it pressed its thick warm blackness in upon the yacht.

"You've good eyes," said Whitney, with a laugh," and I've seen you pick off a moose moving in the brown fall bush at four hundred yards, but even you can't see four miles or so through a moonless Caribbean night."

"Nor four yards," admitted Rainsford. "Ugh! It's like moist black velvet."

"It will be light enough in Rio," promised Whitney. "We should make it in a few days.

Using the Answer, Cite,Explain, Summerize format, analyze how the author uses figurative language to reveal elements of the story's cultural setting

3 answers

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.

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Answer: The author uses figurative language to create a dark and mysterious atmosphere in the Caribbean setting, which shows how sailors view Ship-Trap Island with fear and superstition.

Cite: In the passage, phrases like "thick warm blackness" and "like moist black velvet" describe the night in a way that makes it feel heavy and suffocating. Whitney also talks about the "curious dread" that sailors have about the island, hinting that something is not right.

Explain: The simile "like moist black velvet" helps the reader imagine just how overwhelming the night is, creating feelings of unease and danger linked to Ship-Trap Island. This reflects the local culture's beliefs and fears, showing how sailors might feel intimidated by the unknown. Whitney mentioning sailors' superstitions connects the cultural background to the setting, emphasizing how fear of the island is tied to their experiences at sea.

Summarize: Through vivid figurative language, the author builds a dark and suspenseful mood in the Caribbean, highlighting the cultural fears and myths surrounding Ship-Trap Island. This helps readers understand the story's themes of isolation and the threat of the unknown.