Stanley Norris, often referred to as “Stan” in the narrative, serves as the story’s protagonist. He begins as a tennis pro involved in an affair, a choice that inadvertently places him in Cressner’s crosshairs. From the outset, his characterization paints him as an average man, ensnared in a perilous situation that tests the very limits of his endurance, both physical and psychological. Stan represents the everyman trapped in an extraordinary situation, serving as a conduit for readers to experience the terror and tension firsthand.

Stan’s background as a tennis pro endows Stan with skills that become invaluable during his ledge journey. His affair, on the other hand, gives a glimpse into his audacious nature, further reinforced by his decision to tackle Cressner’s harrowing challenge head-on. His internal monologues, particularly his visceral reactions to the dizzying heights and the looming city below, offer readers a window into his deepest fears. While Stan’s actions, such as persistently pushing forward despite numerous obstacles on the ledge, showcase his determination, his reactions—like the sweat breaking out all over his body—underscore the intense fear he must overcome. Through Stan’s actions, King effectively marries the themes of Human Resilience and

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