In a brief excerpt from a fictional short story, the author presents a remote cabin in the woods, isolated from the outside world. The passage describes the surroundings: tall pine trees standing sentinel, a clear blue lake shimmering in the sunlight, and the palpable stillness of the natural landscape. This setting plays a crucial role in establishing the mood of the story and influences the characters’ experiences.
Based on this description, what is the primary effect of the setting on the narrative?