The Fall of the House of Usher is a terrifying tale of the disappearance of the Usher family, whose inevitable fate is reflected in the sick and evil aura of the house and grounds. Poe uses elements of the Gothic tale to create an atmosphere of terror. The decaying house is a metaphor for Roderick Usher's mind, as well as his family line. The bleak landscape also reflects his personality. Poe also uses wordplay to engage the reader in making predictions or providing information. Poe also sets the story to be intentionally ambiguous so that the reader is continually suspended between the real and the fantastic. One of the first things to notice is how the house is used to represent Roderick's mental state and physical appearance. The house is in ruins and has a sinister atmosphere. This is what the narrator saw and heard when he was reunited with his old friend. He felt a shiver run down his spine, as if something was wrong. He could sense the fear in the air. Furthermore, Roderick feels trapped in his house, just as he is trapped in his own mind. His mind, like the house, is...