How do the setting and atmosphere create a sense of isolation in the characters?
The atmosphere is surreal and filled with hopelessness. Ellen, who is overcome by this sense of hopelessness, has given up.... she feels isolated, cut off from the world, and she wants nothing more than to move back to town. For Ellen, her father's store represents a source of security, a chance to leave the failing farm behind.
Paul, on the other hand, isn't ready to give up his dream, and he continues to believe he can eventually make the farm a success..... that their circumstances, though devastating, are temporary.
The Lamp at Noon
