Mood From Descriptive Language Practice Test

Read this description: "A stormy night wrapped the coast in darkness, and the lighthouse beam swung like a slow, searching finger. Rain slid down the windows in long, shaky lines. The wind pushed at doors and chimneys, as if it wanted to come inside. Lightning flashed, and for one second the waves looked like white teeth. Then the world went dim again, and the next thunderclap felt closer. On the empty street, puddles trembled and street signs squeaked. Inside the diner, spoons clinked too loudly, and everyone kept glancing at the door." Which words or phrases contribute most to the mood?

Read this description: "The storm crept closer, and the sea spray stung like cold pins. Clouds piled up like dark blankets, hiding the moon. The wind whistled through the fishing boats, making ropes knock and masts tap. Lightning flickered behind the clouds, as if the sky were taking quick photos. The town’s main street looked washed-out under the streetlights, and the puddles shone like small mirrors. A dog barked once, then went quiet. Everyone listened to the thunder’s low warning." How does the author use language to convey the mood?