Question

Read these words from paragraph 3. Mr. Scully's shades were drawn; the house had a pinched look as though it felt the cold. The use of the words "pinched look" contributes to the tone of the story by making the house seem:

a) Angry
b) Uncertain
c) Tense
d) Disappointed

Answer 1

The use of the words "pinched look" suggests that the house appears tense, contributing to the gloomy and oppressive tone set by the narrative.The correct option is C.

Step-by-step explanation:

The phrase "pinched look" contributes to the tone of the story by making the house seem tense. In literary analysis, examining the connotations of words can reveal deeper meaning in the text. A "pinched look" usually suggests something being tightly held or squeezed, which can metaphorically translate to a feeling of tension or anxiety. The description paints a picture of the house as if it were bracing against the cold, implying a sense of unease or discomfort. This sensation aligns with the overall gloomy and oppressive atmosphere created by the author through the use of language that evokes feelings of bleakness and desolation, as seen in the repeated references to decay, dreariness, and a depressing mood throughout the passage.