Final answer:
The exposition of a story introduces the main characters, the setting, the time period, and the primary conflict, setting the stage for the plot development with vivid details and literary devices.
Step-by-step explanation:
The exposition in a story is where the initial setting is laid out, introducing the reader to the main characters, the when and where of the story, and the primary conflict or issue that the characters will face. In the exposition of 'The Light in the Lake', the reader would meet the protagonist and other key players, learn about the lake which is the central setting, and grasp the time period in which the story is set. This part of the tale is critical as it sets the scene for the drama to unfold and sows the seeds of the various themes that will be developed as the plot progresses. The exposition not only provides necessary background information but also engages the reader's interest in what is to come. Details are used to craft a vivid picture of the environment, and the use of literary devices, such as metaphor, simile, and rich dialogue, enhance the reader's experience and understanding of the characters and their world.