What is the effect of using personification in a story?

Using personification in a story primarily serves to connect readers emotionally by attributing human characteristics and feelings to non-human entities, such as objects, animals, or abstract concepts. This technique allows readers to empathize with these elements in a deeper, more relatable way. When readers can see emotions or experiences reflected in something that is not human, it often enhances their understanding and investment in the narrative. For example, if a storm is described as "angry" or "weeping," it evokes a sense of mood that can resonate with readers, drawing them into the story and establishing a more profound emotional experience.

The other options, while they may be effects of different literary techniques, do not encapsulate the main purpose and impact of personification as effectively as emotional connection does. Personification is not primarily about creating tension or clarifying complex ideas, nor is it inherently aimed at providing humor, although it can produce those effects in specific contexts. The core strength of using personification lies in how it engages the reader's emotions and fosters a relationship with the narrative through imaginative and relatable descriptions.