How does the author’s inclusion of New England history, particularly the history of the farmhouse, add complexity and mystery to the story? Analyze key scenes to determine how the physical environment interacts with both the external circumstances and the mother’s mental health.

Analyze the author’s decision to reference the COVID-19 pandemic. How do the effects of the pandemic lockdown intensify the story's themes of isolation and anxiety?

Discuss the author’s choice not to name any characters. What effect does this have on the overall tone of the story? Consider the decision to give the intruder a nickname and analyze the symbolism of his name.