Read the excerpt from "The Thing about Terry."



We work four long hours

Nervous stomachs a-churn

Then sneak into the closet

To await her return



Which best describes how the pacing of events heightens tension?


AThe group of friends do not think they can finish painting the stars before Terry returns.
BThe group of friends has a fixed amount of time to finish painting the stars in Terry's room.
CThe group of friends wants to leave Terry's house after they finish painting stars in her room.

Verified Answer :

Final answer:

The pacing in the excerpt heightens tension because it emphasizes the friends' time constraints as they work to finish painting stars for Terry. The line about their 'nervous stomachs' illustrates their anxiety as they await her return. This urgency fosters a sense of suspense and emotional investment in their friend's well-being.


Explanation:

Pacing and Tension in "The Thing about Terry"

The excerpt from "The Thing about Terry" effectively uses pacing to heighten tension among the group of friends as they prepare for Terry's return. The structure of the poem contributes to the feeling of urgency and anxiety. In this context, the option that best describes how the pacing heightens tension is:

  1. The group of friends has a fixed amount of time to finish painting the stars in Terry's room.

This option reflects the time constraint under which they work, creating a buildup of suspense. The mention of "four long hours" and "nervous stomachs a-churn" indicates that their emotions are tied to the pressure of completion before Terry arrives. The anticipation and urgency coupled with their feelings for Terry amplify the tension, making the reader aware of the stakes involved in their task.

Moreover, knowing that they are waiting in a closet—a hidden, secretive space—adds to the feeling of suspense. As they work against the clock, their anxiety intensifies, reflecting their concern for their friend. Their actions and emotions contribute to a narrative where time impacts their relationships and interactions.


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