What are five words or phrases which help create the atmosphere in the beginning of The Monkey's Paw? How do these affect the reader?

The first few paragraphs do not paint a very rosy picture. There is a coldness about the images the reader is confronted with. The atmosphere is quite dark, gloomy and depressing, emphasized by the following:

Outside, the night was cold and wet

Although there was a fire burning in the fireplace, it did not bring any cheer, emphasized by the word 'but'. The fact that it was night, cold and wet adds to the depressing...

The first few paragraphs do not paint a very rosy picture. There is a coldness about the images the reader is confronted with. The atmosphere is quite dark, gloomy and depressing, emphasized by the following:

Outside, the night was cold and wet

Although there was a fire burning in the fireplace, it did not bring any cheer, emphasized by the word 'but'. The fact that it was night, cold and wet adds to the depressing state of affairs since it creates a mood that lacks warmth and conviviality. The two men are playing chess, an intricate and complicated game which alludes to the complexity of life generally or, more specifically, the White's situation.

The reference that Mr white had '... made a serious mistake' enhances the negative atmosphere.

In addition, Mr White's cynicism adds to the effect when he says:

‘That’s the trouble ...

This is an indication that the White family are not truly happy about their living circumstances. The sombre mood is heightened by the use of the word, 'trouble'. More emphasis is provided by Mr White's sudden outburst:

.... shouted with unexpected violence.

Clearly, Mr White is not a happy man. The word 'isolated' enhances the White family's separation from the comfort that they so much seek. it is a clear indication that they feel hard done by and seek better circumstances. This adds to the unhappy atmosphere. Furthermore, their separation and their distress about the fact is illustrated by Mr White's remark:

... people don’t care

The repeated use of negative words and phrases do not only emphasize the sombre atmosphere, but also creates a sense of foreboding. The reader is drawn into thinking that something bad is about to happen, which indeed, it does.