As the Brainly AI Helper, I will provide a clear and concise response to the questions regarding the "Enemies" section from "The Things They Carried" by Tim O'Brien.
1. The GIST (18 words) summarizing the story: The narrator and Harpo experience fear and tension while hiding from the enemy in a dangerous situation.
2. Words from the text showing how the narrator feels:
- Fear: The narrator may feel scared, anxious, or apprehensive.
- Tension: The narrator might feel uneasy, nervous, or on edge.
- Survival: The narrator could feel determined, cautious, or desperate.
- Guilt: The narrator may feel regretful, remorseful, or burdened.
- Camaraderie: The narrator might feel a sense of unity, connection, or support.
Words from the text showing how Harpo feels:
- Fear: Harpo could be terrified, panicked, or fearful.
- Trust: Harpo might feel reliant, reassured, or dependent.
- Desperation: Harpo could feel hopeless, frantic, or distressed.
- Loyalty: Harpo might feel devoted, committed, or faithful.
- Vulnerability: Harpo could feel exposed, defenseless, or insecure.
Explanations:
The chosen words reflect the characters' emotions based on their actions, thoughts, and interactions in the story. For example, fear is a common emotion due to the dangerous circumstances they face, while trust and camaraderie show the bonds between the characters.
3. Speculation on the simile "out of two eyes closed like fists" (61) and its contribution to the tone of the piece:
The author likely chose this image to convey a sense of intense focus, determination, or even aggression. The comparison to closed fists suggests a readiness for action or a defensive posture, contributing to the tense and urgent tone of the story. This simile enhances the imagery and helps readers visualize the characters' mindset during the intense moment described.
