_Initial Incident_: Phoebe dies.
_Steps toward the Dramatic Climax_: Henry “sees” Phoebe until his
mind gives way from brooding. He is possessed of a fixed idea: Phoebe
left because he “reproached her for not leaving his pipe where he was
accustomed to find it.” He searches for her (immediate first steps
given in detail) nearly seven years.
_Dramatic Climax_: He finds her.
_Steps to the Immediate Climax of Action_: He follows her to the edge
of the cliff; he sees her below among the blooming apple trees.
_Climax of Action_: He leaps over the cliff.
_Dénouement_: He is found, a smile upon his lips.
DETAILS. Study the presentation of Henry, which gives so clear an
impression of his unbalanced mind. Study the motivation for this
insanity, the author’s analysis of Henry’s psychology, Henry’s acts,
and his speeches. What contributory effect has the _calling_ for Phoebe?
Would you agree that atmosphere is the dominant element in the story?
Is a supernatural story likely to be one of atmosphere? Why?
Study the way in which the author has made vivid the picture of the
Reifsneider home. Observe the skill with which he has contrasted the
dull, even sordid, realism of the actual setting with the beauty of
Henry’s visions. Why should the final one be the most beautiful? What
color words do you find? How does color, or lack of it, aid in the
unified effect?
Read Mr. Dreiser’s “Free” (see volume bearing this title) and compare
it with “The Lost Phoebe.” Which do you regard as the more significant
story?