Understanding Emotional Conflict through Stage Directions

In the play "The Crucible" by Arthur Miller, stage directions are used strategically to convey the tension and emotional states of the characters.

Consider the following excerpt from a scene in which John Proctor confronts Abigail Williams:

Stage Directions: (He steps closer, his voice low but intense.) Abigail, we cannot go back to that life.

Based on the stage directions, what can be inferred about John Proctor's intentions and emotional state in this moment?