How can authors use of setting build tension within a story?

By showing signs of abandonment in a setting that makes the character as well as the reader uncomfortable. Mentioning sounds that often make humans tense is a good tactic as well, this can be shown in strong winds, running footsteps ect.

the civil rights act was passed on april 9, 1866 by a republican dominated congress. it was passed over president johnson's veto, in an effort to push back against discrimination of african americans.

"why don't you like me the way i am? " i cried. "i'm not a genius! i can't play the piano, and even if i could, i wouldn't go on tv if you paid me a million dollars! "

explanation:

the conflict between jing-mei and her mother is over jing-mei's piano lessons since her mother wants her to become a prodigy but she does not want to play it any more.