A&P
by John Updike
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A&P: Mood 1 key example

Definition of Mood

The mood of a piece of writing is its general atmosphere or emotional complexion—in short, the array of feelings the work evokes in the reader. Every aspect of a piece of writing... read full definition
The mood of a piece of writing is its general atmosphere or emotional complexion—in short, the array of feelings the work evokes in the reader. Every aspect... read full definition
The mood of a piece of writing is its general atmosphere or emotional complexion—in short, the array of feelings the work evokes... read full definition

Key Examples in A&P

Mood
Explanation and Analysis:

The mood of “A&P” is both funny and bleak. The humor in the story primarily comes from Sammy’s over-the-top desire for three teenage girls who come into the A&P during his shift wearing only bathing suits. He describes the “crescents of white” that peek out from their bikini bottoms and the “scoops of vanilla” inside of their bikini tops. He also describes in detail the way they walk as well as the sounds of their voices. He and his coworker Stokesie even have a comical exchange about their shared lust for the girls, with Stokesie noting how he is close to fainting in their presence.