The passage suggests a metaphysical mode, indirectly implying the two characters [Hester and Dimmesdale] are transcendental "two spirits"(line 6) and "disembodied beings"(line8). By way of adverting such expressions, Hawthorne formulates a spiritual image and perception. The narrator pointing out the fact that their "encounter" takes place in "the dim wood" has a double effect (line5). Primarily it tells us setting; it gives us an idea of where this meeting takes place

(as far as this passage is concerned). The "wood" being important as it had Hellish connotations in those days, as people believed it was haunted by the "black man" [Satan], making the woods (Hell) a meeting place for sinners (Arthur and Hester). The other effect being the pun on the word "dim", Nathaniel Hawthorne chose dim for a reason (it would serve the reader well to remember Author's last name is Dimmesdale), to emphasize the mood, and equally important to give a slight humor in the seriousness of the passage. Hester and Dimmesdale, after seven long years, have been unable to discuss matters freely. At first, they are both ill at ease, so they put off talking about what is really on their minds, as they attempt casual conversation. ("When they found the voice to speak...it was...about the gloomy sky, the threatening storm..." line 19-20). Hawthorne's diction sets a dismal tone. i.e. "gloomy... threatening."

Metaphors and similes abound this passage each establishing a visual effect in the mind of the reader. Hawthorne implies that they [Hester and Dimmesdal

Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 729
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)