Between a Rock and a Hard Place Flashcards
(3 cards)
first point
Firstly, Ralston engages the reader by presenting his control and expertise as a climber.
“I come to another drop-off. This one is maybe eleven or twelve feet high, a foot higher than the first.” – The use of precise measurements and technical language highlights Ralston’s experience and confidence as a climber.
“I lower myself…” – The first-person reinforcing his sense of control.
second point
Secondly, the writer interests the reader by increasing tension as his situation becomes more dangerous.
The rock smashes my left hand against the wall. I grimace and growl…” – The violent verb “smashes” and sensory detail intensify the impact of the moment.
“Then silence.” – the short, abrupt sentence isolates the moment, heightening suspense
“I shove against the boulder, pushing it with my left knee, lifting with my right hand…” – Repetition of actions emphasizes struggle and desperation.
third point
Finally, the writer engages the reader by shifting from control to panic
“Then comes the horror: my wrist is caught…” – A colon introduces a turning point, marking the transition from control to crisis.
“Nothing.” – A single-word sentence conveys finality and hopelessness.
Sudden tonal shift: The tone changes from focused and logical to panicked and emotional. Earlier, the text is full of measured, technical language, but as the accident happens, the sentences become more fragmented and tense.
Violent imagery: Phrases like “tearing skin” and “amputated” show the brutality of the moment, contrasting sharply with the earlier calm. This engages the reader by creating physical and emotional tension.
