At one point during the course of events in the story, the narrator reveals that Roderick Usher believed firmly in the “sentience” of all “vegetable things.” In relation to Usher’s fears about the nature of his estate and the surrounding property, why is Poe’s word choice of “sentient” so significant? Furthermore, if Roderick’s fears prove true, what are their implications?

What is the main source of conflict in this passage? lee grew up near the old-growth forest. she loved wandering the trails and looking at the natural beauty around her. but the city council recently approved plans to cut down the forest in order to build a shopping center and apartment buildings. the council believed the development would create new jobs and provide more affordable housing. lee was upset when she heard about the plans to destroy her beloved forest, and she vowed to do something to save it.