The word <em>vegetation </em>has a neutral denotation, while the term <em>home </em>has a positive connotation.
Denotation is the concrete or main meaning of a word, in opposition to the thoughts or feelings that the word suggests. In this case, <em>vegetation </em>is a collection of plants in a particular area.
Connotation refers to the emotions and ideas that a word brings to mind, besides its literal meaning. For example, <em>home </em>is the place where one lives permanently, and implies a sense of protection, good feeling and family.
Because the time was going fast
The action takes place at the climax it is important because it builds it up to the conflict.