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Think about the excerpt from "The Monkey's Paw" and the effect Jacobs creates by slowly revealing to the parents that their

son has died. Why does the author delay revealing this information to readers?
To complete the statement, select the correct answer from the drop-down menu.
The author delays telling readers that the son had died because it
creates a state of calm that lets readers know nothing terrible will happen.
distracts readers from the fact that something terrible has happened.
helps readers better understand the relationship between Mr. and Mrs. White.
creates a state of suspense that makes readers want to know what has happened.

User Todd Freed
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2 Answers

3 votes

Answer:

The author delays telling readers that the son had died because it creates a state of suspense that makes readers want to know what has happened.

Step-by-step explanation:

In "The Monkey's Paw" by W.W. Jacobs, the author employs a deliberate and strategic narrative technique to build suspense and engage the readers' curiosity. By initially withholding the information about the son's death, Jacobs creates a sense of mystery and intrigue. The gradual revelation of the son's fate keeps the readers in a state of uncertainty, making them eager to find out what has happened. This suspenseful technique encourages readers to continue reading, as they are motivated to uncover the full details of the tragic event and its consequences.

The delay in revealing the son's death is an effective literary device that not only keeps readers engaged but also adds to the overall tension and foreboding atmosphere in the story. It plays a crucial role in building up the sense of dread and anticipation that is a hallmark of many horror and suspense narratives.

User Rito
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6 votes

Final answer:

The author creates suspense to engage readers and build emotional investment by delaying the revelation of the son's death in 'The Monkey's Paw.'

Step-by-step explanation:

The author delays telling readers that the son had died because it creates a state of suspense that makes readers want to know what has happened. This technique is a common narrative device used to engage the audience, keep them reading, and build emotional investment in the story. By not revealing the tragic news immediately, Jacobs allows readers to experience the growing sense of dread that Mr. and Mrs. White feel, enhancing the story's overall impact and leaving readers eagerly anticipating the resolution.

User Kirbies
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