The people aren't scared of the box, they are scared of what the box means. Getting picked means dying, so the box ends up being like the symbol of death. Text Evidence, "There was a hesitation before two men, Mr. Martin and his oldest son, Baxter, came forward to hold it"
Lysbilde: 2
When it isn't time for the lottery, the people keep the box hidden away, far from them. Sometimes in a barn, sometimes on a shelf of a store. They believe keeping the box away will keep them safe from the box's wrath, like it was a god, or a higher power. Text Evidence, "The rest of the year the box was put away, sometimes it was set on a shelf in the Martin grocery store and left there."
Lysbilde: 3
The paper in the box ends up being worse, creating a nervous and terrifying mood, not knowing your fate until you open the slip. The slip of paper ends up symbolizing suspense, what happens is out of your control, and you can only wait to see what happens. Text Evidence, "For a minute, no one moved, and then all of the slips of paper were opened. 'Who's got it', 'Who's got it'. "