Final answer:
The simile about Mitchell's announcement demonstrates its suddenness and impact, similar to an unexpected lightning bolt in a clear sky.
Step-by-step explanation:
The simile “Mitchell’s announcement felt like a lightning bolt from a clear blue sky” illustrates the unexpectedness and shocking nature of Mitchell's announcement. Just as a lightning bolt would be completely unexpected on a clear day, Mitchell's announcement caught everyone by surprise. The use of the simile emphasizes the intensity and suddenness of the revelation, suggesting it had a powerful impact on those who heard it.
In the narrative passages given, the emotional and atmospheric buildup lead to a moment that is both significant and startling, mirroring the unexpected and powerful effect Mitchell's announcement has on his audience. This announcement is akin to a climactic moment that changes the course of the story, much like a lightning bolt which powerfully alters the sky’s appearance momentarily.