How do writers achieve effect

Which words in this excerpt from the count of monte cristo can be used as synonyms to determine the meaning of the word grotto? dant? s entered the second grotto. the second grotto was lower and more gloomy than the first; the air that could only enter by the newly formed opening had the mephitic smell dant? s was surprised not to find in the outer cavern. he waited in order to allow pure air to displace the foul atmosphere, and then went on. 1. air 2. opening 3. mephitic 4. cavern 5. pure 6. atmosphere

The difference between the present reservoir, with its silent sterile shores and debris-choked side canyons, and the original glen canyon, is the difference between death and life. glen canyon was alive. lake powell is a graveyard. which word best contributes to the author’s sad tone?

Compare moishe as he is described at the begginning of the memoir with moishe after his escape from death in the forest