You're referring to the short story "The Hitchhiker" by Roald Dahl!
At its core, "The Hitchhiker" explores themes of fate, fortune, and the unpredictability of life. The hitchhiker serves as a symbol of fate, representing the unknown forces that shape our lives. Through Anthony's encounters with the hitchhiker, Dahl illustrates how our lives can be influenced by chance meetings and seemingly insignificant events. the hitchhiker by roald dahl pdf
The full text of the story is available through several digital archives and educational sites: You're referring to the short story "The Hitchhiker"
The use of setting is also noteworthy. Dahl transforms the typically mundane and safe environment of a road trip into a backdrop for a life-or-death struggle. This contrast between the ordinary and the extraordinary heightens the sense of tension and unpredictability, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. This contrast between the ordinary and the extraordinary
: Use a minor authority figure (like the motorcycle cop in the story) to heighten the stakes quickly.