Final answer:
The conflict in 'A Rose for Emily' is the tension between Emily Grierson and the changing world around her. The rising action builds suspense through events like Emily's refusal to admit her father's death and her relationship with Homer Barron. The discovery of Emily's secret room adds to the suspense.
Step-by-step explanation:
The conflict in the story 'A Rose for Emily' is the tension between Emily Grierson and the changing world around her. Emily is a relic of the past and she refuses to conform to the modern society. This conflict creates suspense as the reader wonders how Emily's resistance to change will play out.
The tension and suspense build during the rising action of the plot through a series of events. For example, when Emily's father dies, she refuses to admit that he is dead, causing the townspeople to become curious and concerned. Another example is when Emily starts dating Homer Barron, a northerner, which goes against the traditional values of the town. This creates tension and suspense as the reader anticipates the consequences of their relationship.
In addition, the discovery of Emily's secret room at the end of the rising action adds to the suspense. It is revealed that Emily has been keeping the dead body of Homer Barron in her bedroom, creating a shocking twist and increasing the tension in the story.