- 1
What is the effect of beginning with comedy? When does the tone shift? To what other tones?
The novel’s initial tone is lighthearted, even while the event seems serious enough. The tone slowly becomes more ominous as events unfold, from Poirot’s being called back to London, to the encroaching storm. The tone also can be amused as it shifts according to the character Poirot is describing and his attitude toward their appearance and behaviors. The different tones reinforce one another by contrast.
- 2
Look closely at Poirot’s descriptions of the other characters as he meets and often eavesdrops on them. What do those descriptions reveal about Poirot and his perspectives...
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