Final answer:
The story can be considered a fictional account of a nightmare because it includes elements of fear and terror resembling a nightmare, and is set in a dream-like world.
Step-by-step explanation:
The story can be thought of as a fictional account of a nightmare because it includes elements of fear and terror that resemble a nightmare. The references to dreams and occasions when the character falls asleep add to the nightmarish quality of the story. Additionally, the story is set in a dream-like world, further supporting the idea that it is a nightmare scenario.