In the context of dramatic literature, stage directions serve not just to describe physical actions but also to convey emotional subtleties, character relationships, and themes. Analyzing the role of a specific stage direction can enhance our understanding of the characters' motivations and the overall tone of the play.
Consider the following excerpt from a fictional play:
As the thunder rolls outside, JAMES sits on the edge of the chair, his hands clenched. He looks towards the door, each noise causing him to flinch. SARAH enters quietly, her face shadowed by the dim lighting.
Based on the provided stage directions, which of the following interpretations best captures the significance of this moment?