Words and Phrases:
* "Dark" and "Darkness": Kipling often uses these words to create an atmosphere of mystery and impending danger, highlighting the snakes' nocturnal habits.
* "Silence" and "Stillness": These words amplify the tension, emphasizing the quiet moments before the action explodes.
* "Threat" and "Danger": These direct references to the snakes' threat heighten the sense of urgency.
* "Watchful" and "Suspicious": These words describe Rikki-Tikki's cautious and alert nature, reminding us of the ever-present danger.
* "Sudden" and "Swift": These words emphasize the quick and unexpected movements of the snakes, adding to the excitement.
* "Deadly" and "Poison": These words paint a vivid picture of the snakes' lethal abilities, emphasizing the high stakes of the conflict.
Techniques:
* Suspenseful Description: Kipling vividly describes the snakes' appearance and behavior, creating a sense of fear and dread.
* Foreshadowing: He often hints at future events, creating anticipation and building the reader's interest.
* Short Sentences: He uses short, clipped sentences to create a fast-paced, intense feeling.
* Repetition: Kipling repeats key words and phrases to emphasize the danger and reinforce the theme of the story.
Overall Tone:
* Urgency: Kipling's writing is fast-paced and urgent, mirroring the action and the constant threat of danger.
* Fear: The author expertly evokes a sense of fear and apprehension, making the reader feel the same anxieties as Rikki-Tikki.
By employing these techniques, Kipling crafts a thrilling and suspenseful adventure that keeps readers hooked from beginning to end.