Reading a work of fiction is an act collaboration between the writer and reader Saki placed his story The Interlopers in dark woods at night He chose characters with bitter family rivalry?

You're absolutely right! Saki's "The Interlopers" is a perfect example of how a writer carefully crafts a story to invite collaboration with the reader.

Here's a breakdown of how Saki uses elements of setting, character, and theme to create that collaborative experience:

* Setting: The dark woods at night create a sense of isolation and mystery. This immediately draws the reader into the story and makes them more attentive to the characters' actions and dialogue. The darkness symbolizes the darkness of their conflict, but also hints at the potential for change.

* Characters: Saki presents two characters locked in a bitter family rivalry. This instantly sets up a conflict that the reader wants to see resolved. The characters' animosity, rooted in years of hatred, raises questions in the reader's mind: Will they ever reconcile? What will become of their feud?

* Theme: The theme of the story is centered around the futility of hatred and the potential for forgiveness. This theme is highlighted by the setting and the characters' actions, making the reader contemplate the potential for change in the face of adversity.

Collaborative Experience: Saki's skillful use of setting, character, and theme creates a story that invites the reader to actively participate in the unfolding events. The reader is left to ponder the characters' choices, anticipate their actions, and contemplate the story's deeper implications. This engagement is what makes reading "The Interlopers" such a captivating and thought-provoking experience.