According to Mary Higgins Clark, “Suspense is created when the ordinary becomes extraordinary, and the familiar becomes chilling” (45). This intricate definition of suspense is confirmed in Josh Pachter’s mystery story “Invitation to a Murder”. The letter that Detective Branigan received was already unusual. But to make it even more suspicious, eleven other lawmen (that have personal relations with Branigan) have received the invitation as well. In addition, Eleanor Abbott’s deceptions on the detectives are nothing other than thrilling. The suspenseful element that the story brings to the audience inaugurates when Branigan collects his mail.
From the opening paragraph of the story, the ordinary becomes extraordinary through the scene where Detective Branigan glances at his…show more content… Abbott is able to get away with her extremely mischievous and well-planned scheme. She alludes the detectives into letting Mr. Abbott die without anyone knowing. Mrs. Abbott then tells the detectives, “‘I tried to give it (the substance in the bottle) to him, I tried three times, and each time I tried you and Inspector Branigan chose to stop me. Without it, Gregory’s heart just wasn’t strong enough to go on beating, and so he died’”(133). This tactic that she used was very effective, and proved to be competent in proceeding with her plan. Although this illusion was brilliant, it was inappropriate and disturbing. In conclusion, Mary Higgins Clark’s definition of suspense is proven in Josh Patcher’s mysterious tale, “Invitation to a Murder”. Mrs. Abbott proves the definition to be correct when she fools her colleagues. Detective Branigan also is a perfect demonstration for this definition because of his ties with the 11 other detectives. Branigan also demonstrates the definition when he receives an “invitation to murder” in the mail. Therefore, this story thoroughly represents Clark’s definition that is stated in such a way that it explains how suspense is
