Final answer:
Atticus's unusual behavior of driving rather than walking, and taking an extension cord with a light bulb, suggests that he is preparing for a potential threat, deviating from his norm and causing Jem to worry.
Step-by-step explanation:
The paragraph describes how Atticus behaves unusually, which raises concern for Jem. Atticus is typically accustomed to walking to his office, but this time, he drives. This deviation from his routine, along with taking an extension cord with a light bulb, signifies that he might be anticipating trouble or understands that there's a potential threat. This scene evokes a sense of foreboding and underscores Atticus's awareness of the gravity of the situation he is navigating. The passage from 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee suggests that the lighting, or lack thereof, plays a significant role in setting the atmosphere and symbolizing safety or danger.